Ride or Die: A Spy Comedy with a Twist
The spy genre is a well-trodden path, with countless films and series following the formulaic structure of espionage, action, and intrigue. But what if we subvert expectations and center an action-packed series around two women in their early fifties? That's exactly what Ride or Die does, and it turns out to be a surprisingly enjoyable ride.
The show follows best friends Debbie Claybourne and Judith Burton, who thought they knew everything about each other. But when Judith turns out to be an international assassin, their lives are turned upside down. A hit goes horribly wrong, and they're forced to go on the run together, racing against time and a host of dangerous criminals. It's a thrilling road trip across Europe, with a complex web of crimes and conspiracies to unravel.
What makes Ride or Die particularly fascinating is the unexpected pairing of Hannah Waddingham and Octavia Spencer. Waddingham, best known for her role as Rebecca Welton in Ted Lasso, brings a physicality to her performance that is a refreshing change from her previous projects. Spencer, on the other hand, is given a lot more to do than serve as the frantic friend caught in this new world. Debbie is a very intelligent attorney, and her character is chronically underestimated, making her a compelling addition to the series.
The show's strength lies in its ability to balance comedy and drama. While the story is fairly formulaic and easy to figure out, the writers play with the conventions and cliches of the spy genre, adding a touch of humor and heart. The action sequences are well-choreographed and fun to watch, with some impressive set pieces featuring Waddingham doing some of her own stunts. The U.K. setting and global locales add to the story's richness, and the series explores different angles of the globe-trotting world of Judith's employer, with a complex network of crimes and murder to unravel.
However, the show's pacing could be improved. The first two episodes are helmed by Peyton Reed, who does a solid job of handling the shifting comedy and drama elements. But the rest of the season is directed by DeMane Davis, Allison Liddi-Brown, and Lauren Wolkstein, who keep the momentum moving briskly, but the plot gets regularly bogged down in red herrings. Despite this, Ride or Die is still fun to watch, and the unexpected pairing of Waddingham and Spencer makes it a must-see for fans of spy comedies.
In conclusion, Ride or Die is a refreshing take on the spy genre, with a strong cast and a well-executed blend of comedy and drama. It's a decent summer binge that will hopefully give Hannah Waddingham a lot more opportunities to become an action star. If you're looking for a fun and entertaining series, Ride or Die is definitely worth a watch.
