Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) are back in action for **Bad Boys: Ride or Die**, and fans are already buzzing about the possibility of a fifth installment. Adil El Arbi, one of the film’s directors, hinted at an international adventure for the iconic duo.
Imagine the Bad Boys tearing through the streets of London, Paris, or even Asia! El Arbi shared this vision in a recent interview with Screen Rant, stoking excitement for future globetrotting escapades.
**Bad Boys: Ride or Die** has garnered mixed critical reviews, with a 64% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, the audience reaction tells a different story, boasting an impressive 97% score.
This bodes well for the film’s reception, and although the CinemaScore hasn’t been released yet, previous films in the franchise have consistently scored “A” ratings. With such positive feedback from fans, expectations are high.
The dynamic duo of Smith and Lawrence isn’t the only consistent factor in the franchise. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer, referred to as the directors’ “godfather,” is also back. His unwavering support has been pivotal for Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Arbi expressed immense gratitude, acknowledging Bruckheimer’s crucial role in their careers. Bilall echoed this sentiment, highlighting the legend’s invaluable contributions.
**Bad Boys: Ride or Die** also pays homage to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, specifically drawing inspiration from **Black Panther**. The directors revealed that a significant scene in the film, the death of Captain Howard (Joe Pantoliano), was influenced by the emotional depth seen in Black Panther. This nod to the MCU underscores their admiration for the genre and its impact on their work.
Despite the Oscar controversy surrounding Will Smith, fan support remains unwavering. Smith expressed his gratitude to fans who attended the film’s premiere, showcasing their loyalty and enthusiasm.
The film’s opening weekend looks promising, with early forecasts predicting earnings between $50 million and $60 million. Thursday previews alone brought in $5.9 million, and Friday estimates indicate a robust start, contributing to what should be a successful debut.
As **Bad Boys: Ride or Die** continues to entertain audiences, the potential for another thrilling installment looms on the horizon. The blend of action, heartfelt moments, and international intrigue promises that the Bad Boys are far from done riding or dying together.