Renegades, released in theaters on June 2, 1989, is a quintessential late-‘80s action film that leans heavily into the buddy-cop formula, pairing Kiefer Sutherland and Lou Diamond Phillips (reuniting from 1988’s Young Guns) as unlikely allies on a mission for justice and redemption. The film’s premise—an unconventional Philadelphia undercover cop, Buster McHenry (Sutherland), and a Lakota Indian, Hank Storm (Phillips), forced to work together—offers a fresh cultural twist, but ultimately follows a well-trodden path.
The story kicks off with Buster embedded deep in a police corruption investigation, which goes sideways during a botched jewelry heist. Amid the chaos, a sacred Lakota tribal lance is stolen, and Buster is wounded and left for dead by gangster Marino (Robert Knepper). Hank, whose brother is killed in the same robbery, rescues Buster, and the two form an uneasy alliance to recover the lance and bring Marino to justice.
Their partnership is fraught with mistrust and cultural tension, but necessity—and a shared enemy—forces them to collaborate.
Sutherland delivers a solid performance as the hard-edged, morally conflicted Buster, bringing a sense of vulnerability beneath the tough exterior.
Phillips stands out as Hank, imbuing his character with a quiet intensity and dignity that elevates the film. Their chemistry is the movie’s strongest asset, with Phillips offering the more nuanced turn, balancing stoicism with flashes of humor and pain.
Jami Gertz, while billed prominently, is unfortunately underutilized, serving more as a narrative device than a fully realized character.
The film’s direction is kinetic, with Jack Sholder bringing energy to the action sequences—particularly the opening heist and subsequent chases—but the script rarely strays from genre conventions.
The inclusion of Native American themes and philosophy adds some welcome texture, though it sometimes veers into cliché.
Renegades is not without its flaws: the plot is predictable, and the emotional beats are often telegraphed. Yet, it succeeds as a “popcorn and coke” film—entertaining, brisk, and bolstered by charismatic leads.
Lou Diamond Phillips and Kiefer Sutherland in Renegades (Photo/Universal Pictures)
Reception for Renegades
Renegades grossed $3.1 million on its opening weekend, finishing fifth at the box office.
The film would gross $9.01 million in its theatrical run.
Legacy
For fans of the buddy-cop genre, it offers enough action and camaraderie to satisfy, even if it doesn’t break new ground. In the end, Renegades is a formulaic but enjoyable action ride, elevated by the performances of Sutherland and, especially, Phillips. It’s a film best enjoyed for its nostalgic charm and energetic pacing, rather than originality or depth
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