In this new chapter, Mike Lorre (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) find themselves going through a midlife crisis of sorts. The reality of aging and the dangerous nature of his career lead him to reflect on his life so far. Their resolve is further tested when their late captain, played by Joe Pantoliano, is posthumously implicated in a major corruption scandal. Determined to clear their name and protect their reputation, Lorre and Burnett must navigate a web of deception and danger on the run. As they confront old enemies and form new alliances, the pair are driven not only by justice but also by respect for their fallen leader and a desire to preserve their long-term partnership.
If it’s been a while since you last saw Bad Boys II, it’s worth revisiting Reggie, as he plays a key role in Bad Boys: Ride or Die. Played by Dennis MacDonald, Reggie had a brief but unforgettable role in the second film as a nervous young man asking Marcus’s daughter, Megan (Bianca Bethune), on a date. In the current film, Reggie, who is married to Megan, is seen as a marine who has recently returned from combat overseas. And the way he meticulously kills 15 goons during a home invasion is one of the best action sequences of the film. Similarly, in part three, Bad Boys for Life, we were introduced to Mike’s long-lost son, Armando (Jacob Scipio). Mike fell in love with Isabel Aretas (Kate del Castillo), the wife of a cartel leader while he was undercover. In the previous film, after almost being taken out, Armando took the bullet for his father and is now in prison. He also has an important role in the film. Their fight sequence in the prison is brutal and furious and he concludes one of the film’s emotional arcs by saving the police chief’s granddaughter in the climax.
Directors Adil and Bilal have positioned their film like a Marvel film. Martin Lawrence, as The Black Panther, has an out-of-body experience that makes him believe he is invincible. Due to this he starts taking unnecessary risks. Meanwhile, Will Smith is shown having a panic attack, and begins to question himself like an awakened superhero. Yet, despite throwing themselves into the jaws of danger like every ten minutes, they escape with only minor scratches.
What works in the film is the chemistry between the two lead stars. It’s the camaraderie between Smith and Lawrence that draws you in. His constant banter filled with witty one-liners keeps you smiling the whole time. The CGI is top notch and so is the action choreography.
Will bad boys ever ride again? Maybe yes, maybe no. It felt like that was the end of the road at that moment and the beginning of a potential time for Reggie and Armando to take over the vehicle…