Monday 20 January 2020

Bad Boys For Life (5 Stars)


This is a film that couldn't possibly be good. The first film was made in 1995, the second film in 2003, so making a sequel after 17 years sounds like flogging a dead cop. And yet the film succeeds. I find it even better than the first two films.

Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) is celebrating the birth of his first grandson. Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) tries to talk him out of it, but Marcus can't back out of his decision now. He has to answer to his wife. After the celebrations Mike is shot and almost killed by an assassin called Armando. He's taking revenge by killing everyone responsible for putting his father in prison, starting with Mike.

It takes six months before Mike heals enough to return to duty. He wants to find Armando himself, even though his boss tells him it's unethical for a policeman to work on a case in which he has a personal interest. Mike doesn't take No for an answer. Marcus returns to duty to help him.

The whole story has a poignancy, because Armando's mother used to be Mike's lover.

The film is full of fast-paced action, but what makes it so good is that however much action is taking place, there's always humour. It's impossible not to laugh at the ridiculous situations, or just the inappropriate dialogue.

The film is still in the cinemas. I recommend that you watch it on the big screen.

P.S. The film ends with a hook, suggesting a sequel. Please don't wait another 17 years.

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