Originally published to 8 News Now on June 4, 2024.

Whether it’s Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, Terminator, or Alien, many action film series reach late-stage franchise syndrome, where the well-worn formula reaches the point of malaise. Now, 30 years after the original film, the Bad Boys franchise has reached its fourth iteration, nestling comfortably into its “I’m too old for this stuff” era. It’s time to see if this lightly-used but well-loved franchise can withstand its mortality for one more run with Marcus and Mike.

It’s safe to say the film’s leads, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, have seen their share of change during the three decades since the original film’s release. Both bring their old-guy energy to “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” to varying degrees. Alexander Ludwig and Vanessa Hudgens provide a little freshness as side characters in the titular Bad Boys’ adventure, even if they are mostly resigned to sit on the sideline and utter snappy dialogue.

Regarding said dialogue, “Ride or Die” is funny, and its characters are enjoyable. That’s something that the otherwise formulaic third sequel in a decades-old franchise has going for it. It’s nice to spend time with Smith and Lawrence’s characters, and their unique brand of humor and odd-couple sensibility have stood the test of time. Fans of previous films in this franchise will likely continue to love the camaraderie between the two main characters and their cohorts.

Throughout most of its runtime, however, “Ride or Die” brings the episodic cadence of broadcast TV. No story beat is taken too seriously, and the audience never feels any characters are in real peril, even if the plot insists they are. Indeed, the R-rated language and violence are the only elements separating the fourth Bad Boys film from an episode of NCIS: Miami or whatever new series may have found its way to one of the networks. The plot, which quickly reveals itself as a mishmash of action sequel tropes, brings little to the table to elevate the film. There is little in the way of surprises in the new Bad Boys film.

Its status as a middling action sequel will not deter people who have grown to love the dynamic between the main character duo from enjoying their time watching Bad Boys: Ride or Die. Those who already enjoy the franchise will likely find plenty to like in this new edition, even if the magic and substance appear to be wasting away in a way similar to so many aging action franchises before it.