The buddy cop genre, which emerged in the 1980s, revolutionized the action film landscape by infusing the traditional cop drama with a comedic twist. By pairing two mismatched law enforcement officers, often from different backgrounds and with contrasting personalities, filmmakers created a formula for laughter and excitement. This sub genre of action movie transcended into the 90s, where many would say that it peaked.
In 2024, two films are proving that this genre is still relevant – Bad Boys: Ride or Die, and Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. With the latest Bad Boys movie turning in impressive numbers at the box office, and the fourth Beverly Hills Cop gearing up to be a success for Netflix, we may just see a second wind of buddy cop movies. So, let’s break down some of the best films in this timeless genre.
6. Turner & Hooch (1989)
Turner & Hooch is a buddy cop movie with a unique twist. While buddy cop movies usually focus on two mismatched police officers, this movie does the same, however, one of the cops is a dog. Turner & Hooch tells the story of Scott Turner (Tom Hanks), a straight-laced FBI agent who is paired with Hooch (Beasley the dog), a slobbering and lovable dog, to solve a murder case. When Turner’s partner is killed, he is assigned to work with Hooch, who is the only witness to the crime. Despite their differences, the unlikely duo forms an unlikely bond as they navigate the case and learn to trust each other.
As they dig deeper into the mystery, they uncover a complex web of corruption and deceit that leads them on a wild goose chase across the country. Turner & Hooch has become a classic in the buddy cop genre, thanks to its charming performances, witty dialogue, and heartwarming friendship between Turner and Hooch. The movie’s success has inspired a TV series of the same name, starring Josh Gad as Scott Turner, which premiered in 2021.
Watch Turner & Hooch on Disney+
5. Stakeout (1987)
Stakeout is a 1987 American action-comedy film that tells the story of two mismatched police detectives, Bill Reimers (Emilio Estevez) and Chris “Daugherty” Daugherty (Richard Dreyfuss), who are tasked with surveilling a suspect’s apartment for 30 days. The two detectives couldn’t be more different – Bill is a young, impulsive, and eager-to-please rookie, while Chris is a seasoned, cynical, and laid-back veteran. As they spend more time together, they develop an unlikely friendship, despite their vastly different personalities. However, things take a turn when Chris becomes romantically involved with the suspect, adding a romance element to the film.
Stakeout is often overlooked as a hidden gem in the buddy cop genre, but its witty banter, charming performances, and clever plot make it a fun watch. The age difference between Emilio Estevez and Richard Dreyfuss adds an interesting dynamic to the film, as their contrasting perspectives and energies create a humorous and engaging chemistry. Despite being overshadowed by more popular buddy cop films of the era, Stakeout remains a charming and entertaining addition to the genre.
4. Bad Boys (1995)
Bad Boys is an action-comedy blockbuster directed by Michael Bay, which reignited the buddy cop genre and catapulted Will Smith and Martin Lawrence to stardom. The movie follows two Miami detectives, Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence), who are tasked with retrieving stolen heroin and cash from a group of thieves. The mismatched duo’s banter and contrasting personalities – Mike is a smooth-talking, playboy of sorts, while Marcus is a rough-around-the-edges, old-school cop – create a humorous dynamic that drives the plot forward. As they navigate the case, they must also contend with internal affairs, romantic interests, and their own personal differences. Released in 1995, Bad Boys was a commercial and critical success, revitalizing the buddy cop genre and establishing Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as breakout stars. The film’s success spawned three sequels, Bad Boys II (2003), Bad Boys for Life (2020), and Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024).
3. Lethal Weapon (1987)
Lethal Weapon is a 1987 action-comedy film that redefined the buddy cop genre by introducing a darker and more complex tone. The movie follows two mismatched LAPD detectives, Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover), who are tasked with solving the murder of a young woman. Riggs, a suicidal and reckless loose cannon, is paired with Murtaugh, a family man and by-the-book cop, to investigate the case.
The film’s initial success can be attributed to its expert balance of humor and action, but what sets it apart is its willingness to delve into darker themes, such as Riggs’ troubled past, suicide, and the exploitation of women. While the movie still contains comedic moments, it is ultimately a more serious and disturbing film than many of its action-comedy contemporaries. The sequels, however, would shift the tone to a more lighthearted and comedic approach, particularly with the introduction of Joe Pesci‘s character in Lethal Weapon 2, which would become a hallmark of the franchise.
Watch Lethal Weapon on Apple TV+
2. 48 Hrs. (1982)
48 Hrs. is a 1982 action-comedy film that is often credited with helping to establish the buddy cop genre, although its protagonist, Reggie Hammond (Eddie Murphy), is a small-time hoodlum, not a police officer. Nonetheless, the movie’s mix of action, humor, and banter between Reggie and his unlikely ally, Jack Cates (Nick Nolte), a tough-as-nails detective, checks all the boxes for a classic buddy cop film. When Reggie is released from prison under the custody of Jack, he is forced to team up with him to help him track down a ruthless killer who has escaped from prison. However, Reggie has a hidden agenda, to retrieve the money that the killer owes him. As the mismatched duo navigate the mean streets of San Francisco, their contrasting personalities and skills lead to a series of comedic misadventures. Starring in his first major film role after his breakthrough as a stand-up comedian, Eddie Murphy brought his quick wit and charisma to the title character, cementing his status as a rising star.
1. Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
As mentioned, many consider 48 Hrs. to be the first buddy cop movie. However, many would argue that another Eddie Murphy movie takes that spot – 1984’s Beverly Hills Cop. The film follows Detective Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy), a wisecracking, street-smart Detroit cop who ditches the mean streets of Detroit and heads to the glitz and glam of Beverly Hills to solve the murder of a childhood friend. Paired with his uptight and proper partner, Detective Billy Rosewood (Judge Reinhold), Axel’s fish-out-of-water antics and irreverent humor quickly turn the high-society town on its head.
With its slick blend of action, comedy, and style, Beverly Hills Cop became a massive box office hit and revitalized the buddy cop genre, paving the way for future films like Lethal Weapon. But what really sets it apart is its iconic theme tune, “Axel F,” which has become one of the most recognizable and enduring songs in movie history, still instantly evoking memories of 80s nostalgia today. Want to read more about Beverly Hills Cop? Here’s where the cast are now.
Follow Us
