Bad Boys is mindless entertainment. It has no substance and a nonsensical yet formulaic plot. The dialogue combines inane humor with blunt exposition. There are contrivances, cliches, and dead ends. Emotions are underdeveloped, leaving characters superficial and stagnant. Conversely, the protagonists have semblances of internal conflicts (which never amount to much but, at least, are feigned). Its mistaken identity gimmick gives the script some differentiation, even if it's belabored and rather generic itself. The acting (while one-note and grating at times) boosts the material with chemistry, personality, and physicality. Thus, Bad Boys offers enough for viewers to play along.
While Bad Boys stumbles through its tone, it solidifies a fittingly garish aesthetic. The imagery is vibrant with lighting, motion, angles, color, and framing (despite unclear geography). Its editing may feel messy but it brings energetic pacing, intercuts, slo-mo, and satisfying set pieces. The sound is rich with action, risers, stings, and distortions. Its music is regional, recurring, steadying, and mildly memorable. A keen sense of location characterizes the production design. Its cast had breakout stardom, against-type fit, and representation. Stunts, squibs, pyrotechnics, makeup, and dummies comprise the tangible effects. Overall, Bad Boys is a flawed but likable ride.
Writing: 3/10
Direction: 7/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 7/10
Editing: 8/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 7/10
Casting: 9/10
Effects: 9/10
Overall Score: 7.3/10
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