---
title: "Bad Boys: Ride or Die"
year: 2024
kind: "film"
canonical: "https://film.one/film/bad-boys-ride-or-die"
fi1m_id: "bad-boys-ride-or-die"
imdb_id: "tt4919268"
tmdb_id: 573435
wikidata_id: "Q31271357"
fi1m_score: 60
critics_score: 58
critics_reviews: 13
published: "2026-09-09"
updated: "2026-09-18T08:37:59.275804+00:00"
region: "SA"
licence: "© Fi1m Ltd. Written by AI under a human editor; checked against sources before publication. Quote with attribution and a link to the canonical URL."
---

# Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024)

Directed by Adil El Arbi, Bilall Fallah · 1h 56m · Action, Comedy, Crime

## Identity

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

- **Canonical:** https://film.one/film/bad-boys-ride-or-die
- **Type:** Film
- **Fi1m ID:** bad-boys-ride-or-die
- **IMDb ID:** tt4919268
- **TMDB ID:** 573435
- **Wikidata ID:** Q31271357
- **Same entity:** https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4919268/, https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/573435, https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q31271357

**Fi1m score: 60** · Critics 58 from 13 reviews

*In a sentence:* Martin Lawrence has a heart attack, decides he cannot die, and is the only one who looks like he is enjoying himself

> The fourth *Bad Boys* runs on Martin Lawrence and a handful of well-built set pieces. Around them Chris Bremner and Will Beall have piled a corruption plot, a prison break and a family reunion that nobody on screen seems to care about, and neither did we.

## Synopsis

Miami detectives Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) are back for a fourth outing, directed again by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah. Their late captain is accused, after his death, of having worked for the cartels, and the evidence has been arranged to look convincing. The only person who can identify the man behind the frame is Mike’s son Armando (Jacob Scipio), who is in prison. When the conspiracy turns on the detectives themselves, they become fugitives in their own city, with Rita (Paola Nuñez), Kelly (Vanessa Hudgens) and Dorn (Alexander Ludwig) at their side and Eric Dane’s McGrath somewhere behind it all. Marcus, meanwhile, has survived a heart attack and now believes he cannot die.

## Review

Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who took the series over with *Bad Boys for Life* (2020), bring Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett back for a fourth film, twenty-nine years after Michael Bay’s first. The premise is simple. Their late captain is accused of having been on the cartels’ payroll, clearing him means finding who arranged the evidence, and the search leads into their own department. *Bad Boys: Ride or Die* is loud, fast, sometimes funny and far too busy. It is worth an evening if you already like these two men.

Martin Lawrence is the reason to watch. Marcus has a heart attack in the first reel, has a vision while he is under, and comes back convinced he cannot die. Lawrence commits to this entirely: he strolls towards gunfire, lectures Mike on the universe, eats everything he has been told not to. We laughed more than we expected to and more than the writing deserved, and nearly all of it came from his timing, the half-second he leaves before a line so that everyone else in the scene has to wait for him. Smith has been written smaller. Mike now has panic attacks, a new wife in Christine (Melanie Liburd) and hardly any jokes, and Smith plays him carefully, as if the film would rather not draw attention to him.

The directors are good at the action, and better than they were. Robrecht Heyvaert’s camera rarely settles: it rides a drone through a gunfight, tumbles round the cabin of a plane going down, and for one sequence watches everything through a doorbell camera, which is the best idea in the film. The set pieces are clear. You can tell where everyone is and what they are shooting at, which was not always true under Bay. A firefight scored to Barry White is staged with real wit, and the helicopter sequence has weight. Jon Billington’s Miami is pastel by day and neon by night, and Janie Bryant puts Mike in suits and Marcus in whatever was nearest.

The trouble is everything between the set pieces. Chris Bremner and Will Beall’s script has a corrupt-police plot, a cartel plot, Mike’s imprisoned son Armando (Jacob Scipio), who alone can name the man behind it, a marshal (Rhea Seehorn) with a grudge, a smooth official called Lockwood (Ioan Gruffudd), Rita (Paola Nuñez) trying to run the department, and the two younger officers, Kelly (Vanessa Hudgens) and Dorn (Alexander Ludwig), to be fitted in somewhere. Eric Dane’s McGrath is the sort of villain who explains himself to the nearest camera. Somewhere around the hour we realised we had stopped trying to keep the factions apart, and that the film had been built so this would not matter. Asaf Eisenberg and Dan Lebental cut the exposition as fast as the action, which helps it go by and stops any of it landing.

Lorne Balfe’s score pounds under everything and the mix has been set for the largest room available; at home it can be turned down, and the film improves. The running gags are thin. Marcus’s immortality is funny the first three times and the script uses it a dozen. Tiffany Haddish arrives for one scene as Tabitha, does what Tiffany Haddish does, and is gone. Tasha Smith, as Marcus’s wife Theresa, gets the film’s one honest moment of worry and about a minute to play it.

The best joke is at the leads’ expense. Mike and Marcus stand back and let Dorn handle a fight, and for once the film admits how old its heroes are and is funnier for it. Set against the series, this is the easiest of the four to follow in a gunfight and the hardest to follow anywhere else. *Bad Boys II* (2003) was crude and often ugly and never in doubt about what it wanted. This one wants to be a buddy comedy, a conspiracy thriller, a family drama and a franchise, and is only sure of itself when Lawrence is talking.

The finale at an alligator park is happily silly and goes on about ten minutes too long. Watch it with someone who has seen the others; they can remember who Armando is for you. It runs 116 minutes and carries a 15.

*Fi1m score 60, published 9 September 2026.*

## Straight answers

**Is Bad Boys: Ride or Die worth watching?**

*Bad Boys: Ride or Die* is worth an evening if you already like Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, and we scored it 60. Martin Lawrence and a handful of clearly staged set pieces carry it; the corruption plot, prison break and family drama piled around them are too busy to care about. Newcomers to the series will find the middle hour hard to follow.

**How long is Bad Boys: Ride or Die, and what is it rated?**

*Bad Boys: Ride or Die* runs 1h 56m. It is an action and comedy film.

**Where can I watch Bad Boys: Ride or Die in Saudi Arabia?**

*Bad Boys: Ride or Die* is not on any streaming or rental service in Saudi Arabia at the moment. It is available in 42 other countries; change your country at the top of the page to see where. Availability is checked daily.

**How violent or frightening is Bad Boys: Ride or Die, and is it suitable for children?**

*Bad Boys: Ride or Die* carries a UK 15 certificate and is a loud action comedy built on gunfights, a plane going down and a helicopter sequence with real weight. It is not frightening, but the sustained shooting, the violence and the language make it unsuitable for children. Teenagers who can take two hours of noisy set pieces will be fine.

**How does Bad Boys: Ride or Die compare to Midnight Run?**

*Bad Boys: Ride or Die* and [*Midnight Run*](https://film.one/film/midnight-run) are both odd-couple comedies, but the earlier film is the better one by some distance. Martin Brest lets De Niro and Grodin's quarrelling develop, where this film cuts its bickering as fast as its action and lets nothing land. Choose *Midnight Run* for the conversation and *Ride or Die* only for the gunfights and Martin Lawrence.

**What should I watch after Bad Boys: Ride or Die?**

After *Bad Boys: Ride or Die*, try [*Midnight Run*](https://film.one/film/midnight-run) (1988, Fi1m 88): De Niro and Grodin bicker across America; the model for every odd couple since. Then [*Hot Fuzz*](https://film.one/film/hot-fuzz) (2007, Fi1m 84): Edgar Wright loves this genre enough to take it apart and rebuild it in Gloucestershire.

### Reviews we read (21)

- **Variety**, Owen Gleiberman (80/100, inferred): The stars are in top form and make the formula feel fresh and entertaining through their bromantic chemistry and timing. The film works thanks to their performances elevating standard action and conspiracy elements. [Read](https://variety.com/2024/film/reviews/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence-1236023866/)
- **Empire**, Nick de Semlyen (75/100, inferred): The critic finds the film scruffy and overstuffed but contagiously good-natured, praising its high-energy brio, inventive set pieces, and the enduring sparky dynamic between the leads despite a busy, hectic plot. [Read](https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/bad-boys-ride-or-die/)
- **Los Angeles Times**, Katie Walsh (60/100, inferred): The film rolls on vigorously with familiar goofy energy and some stylistic experimentation from the directors, but the plot is thin and disposable without strong character interest. It favors cartoonish bits over depth. [Read](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/movies/story/2024-06-04/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence)
- **The Telegraph** (3/5): The film repositions a chastened Smith while Lawrence hogs the laughs; it grows more fun with loose-cannon silliness and an absurd alligator-park finale but feels nervous at the outset. [Read](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/films/0/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-is-on-good-behaviour/)
- **Vulture**, Bilge Ebiri (60/100, inferred): The critic praises the enduring chemistry and odd-couple dynamic between Smith and Lawrence, especially Lawrence's exasperated and comedic performance. The action sequences are criticized for lacking the gonzo, over-the-top spectacle of earlier entries like Bad Boys II, making the film feel like passable but uninspired sequel fare. [Read](https://www.vulture.com/article/movie-review-bad-boys-ride-or-die-will-smith.html)
- **The Hollywood Reporter**, Frank Scheck (50/100, inferred): The critic finds the buddy-cop bickering between Smith and Lawrence increasingly strained and wearisome after four films, with the screenplay's convoluted plotting and over-the-top spiritualism gags wearing thin. Some action set pieces, including a helicopter fight and a supporting character's fight scene, are singled out as impressively choreographed highlights. [Read](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence-1235913863/)
- **Screen Daily** (40/100, inferred): The plot recycles the same elements as prior entries with added police corruption, but the relentless bombastic effects, pounding soundtrack and frenetic camerawork make it exhausting rather than exhilarating. It amounts to a by-the-numbers bid for summer box office. [Read](https://www.screendaily.com/reviews/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review/5194201.article)
- **The i Paper**, Rick Burin (35/100, inferred): The review calls it a bad film overall—low comedy and variable action with little new to offer—but praises one standout Ring-cam action sequence and notes its effectiveness as a PR vehicle for Will Smith. [Read](https://inews.co.uk/culture/film/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-3090515)
- **Radio Times**, Terry Staunton (3 out of 5): Despite a screenplay packed with crime-film clichés, the movie succeeds through the slick comic interplay of its leads and superbly choreographed action sequences. It prioritizes white-knuckle thrills over emotional depth or plot logic. [Read](https://www.radiotimes.com/movies/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review/)
- **The Guardian**, Peter Bradshaw: The critic finds the fourth film delivers bromance and innocent amusement from the ageing cops but is weighed down by pointless action explosions and the lingering shadow of Smith's real-life controversies. [Read](https://www.theguardian.com/film/article/2024/jun/04/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence)
- **The New York Times**, Robert Daniels (Critic’s Pick): The critic finds the latest entry assured, relaxed and knowingly funny, with the stars' chemistry smoothing tonal shifts. Specific scenes like a firefight with a Barry White needle drop are singled out for praise. [Read](https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/04/movies/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review.html)
- **The Times**, Kevin Maher (★★★★☆): This is a magnificent summer popcorn movie with propulsive action set pieces, including a standout chopper chase, that marks a strong comeback vehicle for Smith while celebrating the directors' skill at action beats. [Read](https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-finally-a-good-summer-blockbuster-2pbrpht2q)
- **Time Out**, Ian Freer (3 out of 5 stars): The film sticks closely to the franchise formula of buddy banter and over-the-top action but gets by on the easy chemistry between its two stars. The highlight comes when the leads watch a younger character handle the action instead. [Read](https://www.timeout.com/movies/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-2024)
- **/Film**, Bill Bria (8/10): The critic calls it a blast and a top-tier action comedy that feels vibrant and like a brand new series, with a winning balance of grounded heart, over-the-top action, and comedy. They single out the directors Adil & Bilall for their pacing, stylized action sequences like the plane crash and final amusement park set piece, and Smith and Lawrence's chemistry. [Read](https://www.slashfilm.com/1591562/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence/)
- **Collider**, Matthew Donato (7/10): The critic praises the film's energetic action sequences and the chemistry between Smith and Lawrence, noting it delivers on franchise expectations despite some plot overload. They single out the high-intensity action and the leads' performances for praise. [Read](https://collider.com/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review/)
- **Den of Geek**, Joe George (3/5): The review finds the film enjoyable for its comprehensible, colorful action sequences directed by Adil & Bilall, which outdo Michael Bay in clarity and fun. It singles out the over-plotted script with too many threads and lame running gags as detracting from the core buddy-cop joy. [Read](https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-michael-bay/)
- **NME**, James Mottram (2/5): The critic calls it a noisy, unfunny fourth instalment, only endurable due to raucous action scenes, with a workaday script and ridiculous subplots that make no one seem to care. It singles out the lame running gags and underused cast as major flaws in this franchise-worst entry. [Read](https://www.nme.com/reviews/film-reviews/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-3762339)
- **Polygon**, Joshua Rivera (40/100, inferred): The critic criticizes the film's excessive focus on franchise callbacks and lore at the expense of simple buddy-cop fun, though noting strong action direction. They complain about the bloated script and unnecessary mythology-building. [Read](https://www.polygon.com/reviews/24171554/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence/)
- **Deadline**, Pete Hammond: The critic finds the film over-the-top but fun, with plenty of action and strong chemistry between Smith and Lawrence. They praise the directors' energetic style and the colorful Miami setting. [Read](https://deadline.com/2024/06/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence-fun-4th-time-around-miamis-memorable-cop-duo-1235958772/)
- **Paste**, Dom Sinacola (7.5): The review highlights how the film transforms Marcus into a highlight and embraces its absurd, crowd-pleasing action with strong direction. It praises the leads' ages and the fun, energetic set pieces. [Read](https://www.pastemagazine.com/movies/will-smith/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review)
- **The Wrap**, Matt Goldberg: The review highlights that the franchise still has life, with Smith and Lawrence delivering fun performances amid chaotic action and soap opera elements. The critic enjoys the energetic filmmaking and unapologetic stupidity of the plot. [Read](https://www.thewrap.com/bad-boys-ride-or-die-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence/)

## Details

- **Director:** Adil El Arbi, Bilall Fallah
- **Director:** Adil El Arbi, Bilall Fallah
- **Writer:** Chris Bremner, Will Beall
- **Cinematography:** Robrecht Heyvaert
- **Editor:** Asaf Eisenberg, Dan Lebental
- **Music:** Lorne Balfe
- **Production design:** Jon Billington
- **Costume design:** Janie Bryant
- **Producer:** Chad Oman, Will Smith, Doug Belgrad
- **Cast:** Will Smith as Mike Lowrey; Martin Lawrence as Marcus Burnett; Vanessa Hudgens as Kelly; Alexander Ludwig as Dorn; Paola Núñez as Rita; Eric Dane as McGrath; Ioan Gruffudd as Lockwood; Jacob Scipio as Armando
- **Runtime:** 1h 56m
- **First release (the UAE):** 22 May 2024
- **Genres:** Action, Comedy, Crime
- **Budget:** $100 million
- **Box office:** $405 million
- **Trailer:** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWLNl_KQCAU

## Where to watch in Saudi Arabia

Not streaming, renting or buying in Saudi Arabia at the last check.

Also available in: AE, AR, AT, AU, BE, BG, BR, CA, CH, CL, CO, CZ, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, HK, HR, ID, IE, IN, IS, IT, JP, MX, MY, NL, NO, NZ, PA, PH, PL, PT, RO, RS, SE, SG, TH, TR, US. Add `?region=XX` to this URL for another country.

## If you liked this

- *Bad Boys* (1995): Where it started: leaner, cruder, and the two of them still discovering the act.
- *Midnight Run* (1988), Fi1m 88: De Niro and Grodin bicker across America; the model for every odd couple since. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/midnight-run.md)
- *Hot Fuzz* (2007), Fi1m 84: Edgar Wright loves this genre enough to take it apart and rebuild it in Gloucestershire. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/hot-fuzz.md)
- *Police Story* (1985): Jackie Chan’s Hong Kong cop comedy, with stunts no insurer would now allow.
- *The Nice Guys* (2016): Shane Black’s Los Angeles, a bad detective and a worse one, and every joke lands.

---
© Fi1m Ltd. Written by AI under a human editor; checked against sources before publication. Quote with attribution and a link to the canonical URL. Canonical: https://film.one/film/bad-boys-ride-or-die