Another 48 Hrs., released in theaters on June 8, 1990, successfully reunites the iconic mismatched duo of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte for another wild ride through the criminal underworld. While it largely adheres to the successful formula of 48 Hrs., the film delivers a potent dose of high-octane action, sharp wit, and undeniable chemistry, making it a thoroughly enjoyable follow-up that satisfies fans of the original.
The story picks up several years after the first film. Hard-nosed San Francisco police detective Jack Cates (Nolte) is in hot water, facing suspension for a questionable shooting and battling a mysterious criminal mastermind who controls the San Francisco drug trade and is known only as “The Iceman.”
Convinced that the Iceman is the same figure who tried to kill him years ago, Jack is forced to spring ex-con Reggie Hammond (Murphy) from prison once again. Reggie reluctantly agrees to help Jack track down the elusive villain and clear his own name, plunging them both into a deadly game of cat and mouse with a ruthless biker gang and a corrupt police informant.
Murphy effortlessly slips back into the role of Reggie Hammond, bringing his signature blend of streetwise charisma, lightning-fast banter, and comedic arrogance. His energy is infectious, and he once again steals every scene he’s in.
Nolte is the perfect gruff, world-weary foil as Jack Cates, his perpetually exasperated reactions to Reggie’s antics providing much of the film’s humor. Their combative yet ultimately loyal friendship remains the heart of the movie, and their chemistry is as strong as ever.
Brion James returns in his role as Cates’ police detective confidant, Ben Kehoe.
Ed O’Ross, Andrew Divoff, Kevin Tighe, and Bernie Casey fill out the supporting cast, each contributing to the film’s gritty atmosphere and adding to the gallery of memorable antagonists and allies.
Director Walter Hill, returning to the franchise, maintains the raw, kinetic energy that defined the original. The action sequences are plentiful, intense, and well-executed, featuring explosive shootouts, brutal fistfights, and thrilling car chases.
The film embraces its R-rated sensibility, offering a no-holds-barred approach to its violence and humor. The script, while not as tightly structured as the first, provides ample opportunities for Murphy and Nolte to engage in their characteristic banter and propel the fast-paced plot.
Another 48 Hrs. does have its share of controversy based off Paramount’s bizarre last minute re-edit to cut the running time down in order to compete at the box office with the Summer of 1990’s blockbusters lineup spurred on by Total Recall grossing $25.5 million the weekend before.
Nick Nolte and Eddie Murphy in Another 48 Hrs. (Photo/Paramount Pictures)
Reception for Another 48 Hrs.
Another 48 Hrs. grossed $19.5 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office.
The film would gross $153.4 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave Another 48 Hrs. two out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Another 48 Hrs. is a solid and satisfying sequel that delivers exactly what fans desire: more of the explosive action and hilarious interplay between its iconic leads. It’s a testament to the enduring chemistry of Murphy and Nolte and a testament to Hill’s mastery of the action genre. For those looking for a high-octane, laugh-filled buddy-cop adventure, this reunion is definitely worth the ride.
