The original Bad Boys, released in 1995, was initially conceived with Saturday Night Live alumni Dana Carvey and John Lovitz in leading roles. Following script revisions and casting adjustments, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence ultimately starred in the film. Michael Bay, then primarily known for commercial work, was selected as director. This film significantly boosted the careers of all involved, leading to a sequel eight years later. By then, Michael Bay had established himself in the action genre with films like The Rock and Armageddon, allowing Bad Boys II to escalate into a large-scale action spectacle. While both the first and second installments are competent action films, the appeal of Martin Lawrence’s performance is subjective. After the second film, rumors of a third Bad Boys installment circulated for years, but it wasn’t until 25 years after the original, and 17 years after the sequel, that a new film materialized.
Following a dramatic escape from a women’s prison in Mexico, Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) find themselves targeted. A deeply personal vendetta is set in motion, promising to alter their lives irrevocably.
Regarding the strengths of Bad Boys For Life: Michael Bay did not direct this installment, instead passing the reins to the directing duo Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah. They navigate the production effectively, incorporating several impressive and stylish directorial choices. The film maintains a contemporary feel, yet incorporates a retro sensibility through the use of practical effects for blood and other elements, rather than relying solely on CGI. This approach aligns the film more closely with its 90s action genre roots. Bad Boys For Life also contains moments of surprising depth, and Martin Lawrence delivers a commendable performance, particularly in the initial acts. However, his performance regresses to a more exaggerated style later in the film. Will Smith appears remarkably unchanged over the past 25 years, and the film allows him to self-deprecate his public persona. Joe Pantoliano reprises his role as the beleaguered police chief, providing insightful commentary. The film successfully conveys a sense of continuity within the established world. Newcomers Vanessa Hudgens and Jacob Scipio deliver solid performances on opposing sides of the law.
Areas for improvement include the film’s runtime, which feels somewhat excessive. A reduction of fifteen to twenty minutes would have been beneficial. Furthermore, the film unfortunately relies on several familiar tropes; elaborating further would reveal significant plot points. However, audiences will likely anticipate certain developments as they unfold. Additionally, the “cool” montage depicting the murders of police officers, judges, and lawyers lacks subtlety in its execution.
In conclusion, Bad Boys for Life is an enjoyable action film that occasionally exhibits unexpected depth. Does the franchise conclude here? The end-credits sequence suggests otherwise. While the film’s length and occasional lapses into excessive humor prevent it from being essential viewing, it remains a worthwhile recommendation for fans of the series and genre.
