The Comedian Meets The Rapper

Ride Along

In 1982 American audiences were introduced to a new subgenre of film. 48 HRS staring Nick Nolte and Eddie Murphy is considered the first ‘buddy-cop’ action film. The general definition of this subgenre is two people, usually cops, who are very different in personality being forced to work together for a common goal. In my opinion this subgenre was perfected five years later with Lethal Weapon, starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover.  Of course, like every other genre or subgenre in film, there are some movies that may need to be forgotten.

James Payton is a hard-nosed detective on the trail of the elusive and mysterious Omar. Ben is an eccentric would-be police cadet. Ben just happens to be dating James’ sister. So to get James’ blessing, Ben decides to prove to James that he is worthy of his sister by agreeing to come on a ride along with James. But when their worlds collide, James and Ben must try to work together to bring down Atlanta’s most dangerous crime-lord.

This film is every cliché of a buddy cop film ever seen. I understand that this film was most likely not made to break new ground or redefine the genre, but I would at least expect something fresh. This film even goes so far as to quote other cop movies (Training Day specifically). I like both of these actors, especially Ice Cube since he has tried pretty hard to distance himself from the stereotypical rapper/actor roles (i.e. Three Kings). Kevin Hart is a great comedian making headway with his acting career. It’s just this film didn’t do either one any favors on their resume. Hart is annoying and almost tries too hard to be funny.

The plot of the film can be played out in your head the moment that Hart agrees to the ride along. As mentioned, every cliché in the book.  Don’t want to give spoilers, just in case, but don’t expect any surprises.

Tim Story is in the director’s chair for this film. I have many mixed feelings when it comes to Story. I loved Barbershop, but on the flip side he destroyed one of the best Marvel franchises with Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. With this film, I think he could have done a little bit more but he just gives the audience a very cookie cutter film.

This film is best just to kill time with. I just don’t think that even Kevin Hart fans will enjoy him in this film. One or two funny moments, but other than that it is 1 hour and 40 minutes of annoyance.

Verdict: Not Worth Your Time.