Today’s quick review: Bad Boys for Life. For almost twenty-five years, Detectives Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) of the Miami PD have kept the city safe from drug dealers, thieves, and other criminals. Now Marcus is contemplating a major change: retirement. But when Isabel Aretas (Kate del Castillo), an enemy from Mike’s past, breaks out of prison, the two partners must work together one last time to save Mike’s life.
Bad Boys for Life is an action comedy and the third movie in the Bad Boys series. Bad Boys for Life sees the return of Mike and Marcus, only a little worse for the wear after their decades on the force. This time the duo face off against the psychotic queen of a drug cartel and her deadly son Armando (Jacob Scipio). High-stakes action blends seamlessly with skillful comedy and a well-constructed plot to make Bad Boys for Life a satisfying watch.
Bad Boys for Life strikes a surprising blow with its comedy. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence have perfected their onscreen relationship, trading barbs with veteran timing. Lawrence in particular carries the film’s comedy, working absurd jokes into dangerous situations and making them feel natural. The supporting cast doesn’t score as many hits, and the comedy as a whole is subject to taste, but the consistent humor keeps the movie fun and energetic.
Bad Boys for Life is no slouch in the action department either. The fights and chase scenes are as destructive as ever, with improved fight choreography compared to previous entries in the series and a few good set pieces to work with. The movie is still loosely bound by the logistics of the real world, so its stunts, however exaggerated, never go beyond explosions, gunfights, and helicopters. Even so, the stunts are executed well and put to good use.
Bad Boys for Life is a strong pick for fans of the action genre. It tackles the formidable challenge of continuing a series that has lain dormant for nearly two decades, and it manages to do so with no appreciable drop in quality. There are more iconic buddy comedies out there and action movies with more over-the-top stunts, but Bad Boys for Life makes a place for itself in a crowded field thanks to its strong fundamentals and excellent leads.
For a buddy cop comedy in a similar vein, try Lethal Weapon and its sequels. For even more over-the-top action, check out the Fast & Furious series. For a sci-fi action movie starring Will Smith in a similar role, try Gemini Man. For a more ridiculous action comedy centered on another strong pair of leads, try The Hitman’s Bodyguard.
7.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 to 7.5 for rock-solid action and comedy.