This summer, the Bad Boys franchise returns with Bad Boys: Ride or Die, once again combining explosive action and irreverent humor. In this new opus, Miami's top cops, Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence), become America's most wanted men after their captain, Howard, is falsely accused of drug trafficking. Determined to clear his name, Mike and Marcus embark on a perilous quest to uncover the truth. However, their mission puts them on the run, hunted not only by the police but also by the city's cartels and gangs. They must now flee for their lives, while trying to prove their captain's innocence.
The return of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence is a real event for fans of the saga. Their on-screen chemistry is intact and even strengthened by decades of friendship. Director Bilall Fallah, who is co-directing the film with Adil El Arbi, underlines this unique connection: “The chemistry between them is incredible. They form the best - and most original - duo in cinema imaginable.” This complicity translates into authentic, hilarious performances that make their characters even more endearing. According to Smith, their relationship has been built on mutual respect and admiration for thirty years, and it shows on screen.
Alongside Smith and Lawrence, the film brings together a star-studded cast including Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, Paola Nuñez, Eric Dane, Ioan Gruffudd, Melanie Liburd, Tasha Smith, Tiffany Haddish and Joe Pantoliano. Each of these actors brings unique depth and color to the plot, enriching the narrative and delivering memorable performances. Joe Pantoliano, in particular, reprises his iconic role as Captain Howard, adding a layer of nostalgia and emotion to the film.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die is directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who previously helmed the successful Bad Boys for Life. Their dynamic, innovative style, coupled with the experience of legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer, promises a spectacular cinematic experience. Cinematographer Robrecht Heyvaert and composer Lorne Balfe complete this talented team, ensuring that the film is visually and acoustically stunning.
The shooting of Bad Boys: Ride or Die pushed the limits of technology and creativity. The action sequences are particularly impressive, using innovative techniques such as SnorriCam and drones to create total immersion. Robrecht Heyvaert explains that the aim was to accentuate contrasts and capture the raw energy of the actors. Each action scene was designed to be unique and memorable, in harmony with the characters' personalities.
Secondary characters also play a crucial role in the plot. Jacob Scipio returns as Armando Aretas, offering a captivating evolution of his character. Eric Dane plays James McGrath, a former secret agent turned mole for the cartels, adding a dimension of tension and danger. Vanessa Hudgens and Alexander Ludwig, as members of the AMMO team, bring an exciting new dynamic, exploring more personal and complex aspects of their characters.
The Bad Boys franchise has always been appreciated for its ability to blend action, humor and emotion. This new opus is no exception, offering moments of pure adrenaline as well as touching and comic scenes. As producer Chad Oman points out, the magic happens thanks to the complicity between Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, who manage to captivate the audience at every turn. Director Adil El Arbi adds that this chemistry is no accident, but the result of meticulous preparation and a great capacity for improvisation.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die would not be complete without careful attention to visual detail. The city of Miami, with its bright colors and unique architecture, is almost a character in its own right. Adil and Bilall worked closely with set designer Jon Billington to capture the essence of the city and create settings that enrich the film's atmosphere. Each location is carefully chosen to add depth and character to the story.
Synopsis :
This summer, the Bad Boys franchise returns with its iconic blend of explosive action and irreverent humor. But this time, Miami's top cops become America's most wanted men.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
Directed by Adil & Bilall
Written by Chris Bremner
Based on Characters by George Gallo
Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, Will Smith, Chad Oman, Doug Belgrad
Starring Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, Paola Núñez, Eric Dane, Ioan Gruffudd, Jacob Scipio, Melanie Liburd, Tasha Smith, Tiffany Haddish, Joe Pantoliano
Cinematography : Robrecht Heyvaert
Music by Lorne Balfe
Production companies : Columbia Pictures, 2.0 Entertainment, Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Westbrook Studios
Distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing
Release date : June 5, 2024 (France) June 7, 2024 (United States)
Running time : 115 minutes