Another Stakeout, the comedy-action sequel directed by John Badham that opened in theaters on July 23, 1993, reunites the bickering detective duo from Stakeout and throws a new, boisterous element into their already chaotic lives. The film delivers a mix of laughs and light action, leaning heavily on the chemistry of its returning stars and the addition of a lively new character.
The story brings back Seattle detectives Chris Lecce (Richard Dreyfuss) and Bill Reimers (Emilio Estevez). Their latest assignment takes them to a luxurious vacation home in the upscale suburbs of Seattle, where they are tasked with staking out the house of a wealthy couple. Their target is a witness who has gone into hiding after testifying against the mob.
However, their covert operation is immediately complicated by the unexpected arrival of Assistant District Attorney Gina Garrett (Rosie O’Donnell), who insists on joining the stakeout.
Gina, a loud and opinionated prosecutor, quickly disrupts Chris and Bill’s established routine and their already strained partnership. Her presence adds a new layer of comedic friction as the trio attempts to maintain their cover while observing the house.
The situation becomes even more precarious when the mob, led by the ruthless Tony Castellano (Miguel Ferrer), closes in, determined to silence the witness.
As the stakeout progresses, the detectives and Gina find themselves in increasingly absurd situations, trying to blend in with the neighborhood while keeping a watchful eye on their target.
The film features a supporting cast that includes Dennis Farina as Brian O’Hara, Cathy Moriarty as Luella Delano, John Rubenstein as the District Attorney, and Dan Lauria as Captain Phil Coldshank.
Madeleine Stowe reprises her role of Maria McGuire from the original film.
The humor often stems from the clash of personalities, the awkward attempts at normalcy, and the escalating dangers of their mission.
Richard Dreyfuss and Emilio Estevez in Another Stakeout (Photo/Touchstone Pictures)
Reception for Another Stakeout
Another Stakeout grossed $5.4 million on its opening weekend, finishing in ninth place at the box office.
The film would go on to gross $29.6 million worldwide, which was considered disappointing after Stakeout grossed $65.7 million to rank as the No. 7 film of 1987, trailing The Secret of My Success ($67 million) and just ahead of the original Lethal Weapon ($65.2 million).
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The legacy of Another Stakeout is primarily as a fun, if not groundbreaking, follow-up to its successful predecessor. While it didn’t achieve the same critical acclaim, it’s remembered for the continued comedic interplay between Dreyfuss and Estevez, who had established a strong on-screen rapport.
The movie remains a lighthearted entry in the buddy-cop subgenre, offering a pleasant blend of action and comedy for those looking for an entertaining, undemanding watch that showcases its stars’ comedic talents.
Another Stakeout (Photo/Touchstone Pictures)
