Ride Along

Ride Along is a 2014 action-comedy that follows Ben Barber, an earnest video game security guard with dreams of becoming a police officer. He is encouraged by his fiancée Angela to prove his worth to her tough, no-nonsense brother, James Payton, a seasoned Atlanta detective. To earn James' approval, Ben must join him on a day-long patrol that turns into a chaotic ride through the city streets. The mismatched duo faces outrageous situations, including reckless criminals and hilarious mishaps. As they navigate their differences, Ben’s determination and James’ gruff demeanor lead to unexpected camaraderie, forcing them to confront their own insecurities and redefining what it means to truly protect and serve. With its blend of action and comedy, Ride Along delivers plenty of laughs, adventure, and a heartfelt message about family and trust.

Ride Along received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a low approval rating of just 18%, with the consensus noting that despite Ice Cube and Kevin Hart's chemistry, the film often relies on tired comedic tropes. The Washington Post remarked, 'Ride Along is a forgettable romp that feels too predictable and overly reliant on slapstick humor.' Meanwhile, IMDb users have rated it at 6.1/10, indicating a more favorable response from the general audience. Metacritic gives it a score of 41/100, reflecting 'mixed or average reviews.' Some viewers appreciated the comedic performances, with an audience member stating, 'Kevin Hart's energy is infectious, making even the dull moments resonate with laughter.' Despite its shortcomings, others found the film entertaining, with the Los Angeles Times suggesting it 'serves its purpose as a light-hearted comedy that doesn't overstay its welcome.' Overall, while it falls short of critical acclaim, Ride Along manages to entertain with its humor and action sequences.