Today’s quick review: Money Talks. Ticket scalper Franklin Hatchett (Chris Tucker) has a good racket going, at least until investigative reporter James Russell (Charlie Sheen) puts him behind bars. But when fellow prisoner Raymond Villard (Gerard Ismael) stages a breakout, Franklin is swept along with it and ends up as a wanted fugitive. Now Franklin must seek James’ help to clear his name and avoid the cops and criminals who want him dead.
Money Talks is a crime comedy about an unlikely pair of allies. Chris Tucker stars as Franklin Hatchett, a small-time criminal whose fast tongue gets him in trouble as often as it gets him out of it. Charlie Sheen plays opposite him as James Russell, a reporter in desparate need of a scoop. Talented leads and a few good comedy bits make Money Talks a light, entertaining watch. However, its premise and execution both lack the impact they could have.
Money Talks is primarily a vehicle for Chris Tucker. His fast patter and comedic energy drive the comedy and the plot alike, as Franklin searches for a way out of a situation that could end with him dead. Charlie Sheen acts as his straight man, toning down his own comedic style to better foil Tucker’s antics. The duo never clicks the way the strongest buddy pairings do, but they do work well enough together to keep the comedy coming.
The main thing Money Talks is missing is a strong hook. Franklin and James don’t have a compelling reason to stick together, and the script doesn’t invest enough effort into getting them to see eye to eye. The plot is a jumble of loosely connected elements, from Villard’s schemes to the police manhunt for Franklin to James’ pending wedding. The result is a comedy that has some funny moments but isn’t as satisfying as it could be.
Money Talks is a decent pick for those in the mood for a quick, light comedy. A decent setup, a madcap story, and the energy Chris Tucker brings to the role are enough to earn some laughs. But its premise, its execution, and the chemistry of its leads all leave something to be desired, leaving it outclassed by more memorable buddy films. Those who dislike Tucker’s hyperactive style will also want to steer clear.
For an even funnier action comedy starring Chris Tucker and directed by Brett Ratner, try Rush Hour. For a buddy cop crime comedy with a similar plot, try Starsky & Hutch. For another offbeat comedic pairing, try The In-Laws. For a similar comedy duo, try Ride Along.
6.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.0 to 6.5 for fun but not especially memorable comedy.