Midnight Run (1988)

The critic praises the strong chemistry and performances of De Niro and Grodin as the mismatched pair on the run, noting how the film elevates its formulaic chase structure through quirky character work and emotional depth in the finale.

The review lauds De Niro's comic turn paired with Grodin, resulting in one of the most entertaining and original road pictures, thanks to a terrifically developed script with inventive twists and strong supporting characters.

The critic calls it an expert, murderously funny chase comedy redeemed by brilliant execution, talent (especially De Niro), and human moments of interplay between the leads rather than mere action set pieces.

The critic praises the sparkling chemistry between Robert De Niro's bounty hunter and Charles Grodin's embezzler as they evade mobsters, FBI agents and rivals. Director Martin Brest is commended for blending car chases and shoot-outs with quick-witted comedy in an expert reworking of the odd-couple formula.

The review highlights the inspired casting of De Niro and Grodin, whose performances elevate the otherwise standard action-comedy premise into something memorable and gold-worthy amid the cross-country chase.

The film is a minor classic that approaches perfection as a combination of buddy movie, odd-couple picture and road movie. The critic singles out the wonderful chemistry between De Niro and Grodin for praise.

Midnight Run is one of the finest examples of a grown-up genre picture that executes all the expected beats in a fresh, lively way. The critic singles out the deadpan odd-couple friction between De Niro and Grodin for praise.

The familiar handcuffed-captor-and-captive formula is revitalized by the lead performances. Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin improvise routines that elevate the odd-couple pairing, though the director occasionally resorts to car chases.