Bad Boys for Life

{{Infobox film

| name = Bad Boys for Life

| image = Bad Boys for Life poster.jpg

| caption = Theatrical release poster

| director = {{Plainlist|

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| producer = {{Plainlist|

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| writer =

| screenplay = {{plainlist|

Chris Bremner
Peter Craig
Joe Carnahan

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| story = {{plainlist|

Peter Craig
Joe Carnahan

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| based_on = {{Based on|Characters|George Gallo}}

| starring = {{Plainlist|

}}

| narrator =

| music = Lorne Balfe

| cinematography = Robrecht Heyvaert

| editing = {{plainlist |

}}

| production_companies = {{Plainlist|

Columbia Pictures
2.0 Entertainment
Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films{{efn|Jerry Bruckheimer Films used the Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films logo in memory of Don Simpson, who co-produced the first film. This was also the case for Top Gun: Maverick, where Simpson also co-produced the first Top Gun film as well as the second Bad Boys film.}}
Overbrook Entertainment{{Cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2018/09/sony-overbrook-entertainment-12-oclock-boys-film-1202463691/ |title=Sony & Overbrook Entertainment Team On Film About Dirt-Bike Riders |access-date=May 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190509124227/https://deadline.com/2018/09/sony-overbrook-entertainment-12-oclock-boys-film-1202463691/ |archive-date=May 9, 2019 |url-status=live |work=Deadline Hollywood|date=19 September 2018 }}

}}

| distributor = Sony Pictures Releasing

| released = {{Film date|2020|1|17}}

| runtime = 124 minutes{{cite web|url=https://bbfc.co.uk/releases/bad-boys-life-film-0|title=Bad Boys for Life (15)|website=British Board of Film Classification|date=January 14, 2017|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200115155724/https://bbfc.co.uk/releases/bad-boys-life-film-0|archive-date=January 15, 2020|url-status=live}}

| country = United States{{cite web |title= Bad Boys for Life (2020) |url= https://www.bfi.org.uk/films-tv-people/5ddbd53927c08 |website= British Film Institute |access-date= January 18, 2020 |archive-date= December 25, 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205638/https://www2.bfi.org.uk/films-tv-people/5ddbd53927c08 |url-status= dead }}{{Cite web|url=https://www.the-numbers.com/movie/Bad-Boys-For-Life-(Bad-Boys-3)-(2020)#tab=summary|title=Bad Boys for Life (2020)|website=The Numbers|access-date=March 17, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191230202109/https://www.the-numbers.com/movie/Bad-Boys-For-Life-(Bad-Boys-3)-(2020)#tab=summary|archive-date=December 30, 2019|url-status=live}}

| language = English

| budget = $90 million

| gross = $426.5 million{{Cite web |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/release/rl1182631425/?ref_=bo_da_table_1 |title=Bad Boys for Life (2020) |website=Box Office Mojo |publisher=IMDb |access-date=April 12, 2020 |archive-date=December 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205718/https://www.boxofficemojo.com/release/rl1182631425/?ref_=bo_da_table_1 |url-status=live }}

}}

Bad Boys for Life is a 2020 American buddy cop action comedy film that is the sequel to Bad Boys II (2003) and the third installment in the Bad Boys franchise. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence reprise their starring roles in the film, which is directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah. Theresa Randle and Joe Pantoliano also reprise previous roles and are joined by Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, Paola Núñez, Charles Melton, Kate del Castillo, and Nicky Jam. The film was produced by Smith, Jerry Bruckheimer, and Doug Belgrad, with a screenplay written by Chris Bremner, Peter Craig, and Joe Carnahan. In the film, Miami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett investigate a string of murders tied to Lowrey's troubled past.

A third Bad Boys film was contemplated following the release of the second film in 2003, with Michael Bay stating he would be interested in returning to direct, but budgetary constraints led to stalled efforts. Over the years, a variety of writers and directors were attached as the film went through multiple attempts to enter production. The project was eventually finalized and green-lit in October 2018, and filming began the following year, lasting from January to June 2019. Principal photography took place in Atlanta, Miami, and Mexico City.

Bad Boys for Life was theatrically released in the United States on January 17, 2020, by Sony Pictures Releasing under the Columbia Pictures label. The film was generally well received by critics and grossed $426.5 million worldwide, becoming the third-highest-grossing January release of all time. It was also the fourth-highest-grossing film of 2020 and the highest-grossing film in the franchise. A sequel, Bad Boys: Ride or Die, was released on June 7, 2024.

Plot

Seventeen years after Johnny Tapia was taken down by Miami PD Detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett,{{efn|As depicted in Bad Boys II (2003).}} Isabel Aretas, widow of cartel kingpin Benito, escapes from a Mexican prison with the aid of her son Armando. Isabel sends Armando to Miami, tasking him with recovering a substantial stash of money Benito had hidden, as well as assassinating the people responsible for his arrest and eventual death in prison. Isabel also demands that Armando kill Mike last.

In Miami, Mike accompanies Marcus to the birth of his first grandson. Marcus wants to spend more time with his family, so he tells Mike he intends to retire, to Mike's chagrin. During a footrace against Marcus to prove who is faster, Mike is shot by Armando and left in a coma for months. Chastised by Isabel for targeting Mike first, Armando continues to assassinate other targets on his list during Mike's convalescence.

Following Mike's recovery, he is determined to seek revenge and unsuccessfully attempts to recruit the now-retired Marcus, which causes them to fall out. An informant gives Mike the identity of arms dealer Booker Grassie. Realizing that Mike will not heed orders to avoid the investigation, Captain Conrad Howard reluctantly allows him to work with the tech-driven team in charge, Advanced Miami Metro Operations (AMMO), led by Mike's ex-girlfriend, Lieutenant Rita Secada.

While the team surveils Grassie at an arms deal, Mike intervenes after determining the buyers intend to kill Grassie, but he fails to save him. Later, Marcus is called by Carver Remy, an old informant who believes the assassin is after him. Marcus and Mike travel to Carver, but he is killed as they arrive. Armando escapes after a fistfight with Mike.

Captain Howard later reveals his intentions to retire, advising Mike that he needs to find a path forward in life. Moments later, Armando abruptly assassinates him. The captain's death pulls Marcus out of retirement, but he convinces Mike to work as a team with AMMO. They track down Grassie's accountant, who leads them to Lorenzo "Zway-Lo" Rodriguez. Infiltrating Zway-Lo's birthday party leads to a destructive car chase. Armando arrives in a helicopter to rescue Zway-Lo but kills him when he blocks Armando's way to shoot Mike. As he lines up a shot, Armando tells Mike "Hasta el fuego". Gunfire from Marcus creates cover for Mike, who falls into the ocean below.

AMMO is shut down because of the failed operation. In private, Mike reveals to Marcus that Armando may be his son. He explains that, twenty-four years ago, before partnering with Marcus, Mike worked undercover in the Aretas cartel where he met Isabel. They fell in love and intended to run away together, using "Hasta el fuego" as a made-up secret catchphrase. Mike ultimately remained loyal to the police, realizing how dangerous Isabel would become. Despite Mike's opposition, Marcus and AMMO join him in Mexico City to confront her.

At the abandoned hotel, Mike meets Isabel and scolds her for concealing the truth from him. A shootout quickly ensues between AMMO and Isabel's men. Marcus shoots the pilot of Isabel's escape helicopter, causing it to crash and start a fire. Marcus confronts Isabel, while Mike tells the truth to Armando. In a fit of rage, Armando beats on him, who refuses to retaliate. He demands the truth from his mother, and Isabel confirms that Mike is his real father.

Realizing the task he spent a lifetime training for was a lie, Armando tries to reason with his mother, leading to Isabel inadvertently shooting him while aiming for Mike. Enraged, Isabel attempts to shoot Mike again, but Rita shoots her, and she falls to her death into the flames below.

Sometime later, Rita is promoted to Captain, while Mike and Marcus are placed in charge of AMMO. Mike visits a remorseful Armando in prison and offers him a chance to earn some redemption on a new case, which he accepts.

Cast

Will Smith as Detective Lieutenant Michael Eugene 'Mike' Lowrey, Marcus' partner/best friend.
Martin Lawrence as Detective Lieutenant Marcus Miles Burnett, Mike's partner/best friend.
Vanessa Hudgens as Kelly,{{Cite web|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/film/bad-boys-life-trailer-reveals-20816984|title=Bad Boys for Life trailer reveals action-packed scenes for Will Smith sequel|last=Knight|first=Lewis|date=2019-11-05|website=mirror|access-date=2019-11-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191113171551/https://www.mirror.co.uk/film/bad-boys-life-trailer-reveals-20816984|archive-date=November 13, 2019|url-status=live}} weapons expert of AMMO{{cite news |url=https://www.phillytrib.com/entertainment/movies/bad-boys-for-life-plays-on-the-aging-boys/article_0dc98313-b4c2-5f65-abd6-62946c2e3452.html |last1=Brown |first1=Dwight |title='Bad Boys for Life' plays on the aging 'boys' |access-date=June 25, 2020 |work=The Philadelphia Tribune |date=January 16, 2020 |archive-date=December 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205718/https://www.phillytrib.com/entertainment/movies/bad-boys-for-life-plays-on-the-aging-boys/article_0dc98313-b4c2-5f65-abd6-62946c2e3452.html |url-status=live }}
Alexander Ludwig as Dorn, tech expert of AMMO
Paola Núñez as Lieutenant Rita Secada, head of Miami Police unit AMMO and Mike's ex-girlfriend.
Jacob Scipio as Armando Aretas, Mike and Isabel's son
Charles Melton as Rafe, member of AMMO
Kate del Castillo as Isabel 'La Bruja' Aretas, Mike's ex-lover and Armando's mother
Nicky Jam as Lorenzo 'Zway-Lo' Rodríguez{{Cite web |url=https://variety.com/2019/film/news/bad-boys-sequel-nicky-jam-1203111208/ |title=Reggaeton Star Nicky Jam Joins 'Bad Boys' Sequel (EXCLUSIVE) |last=Kroll |first=Justin |date=January 18, 2019 |website=Variety |language=en|access-date=March 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190119174400/https://variety.com/2019/film/news/bad-boys-sequel-nicky-jam-1203111208/|archive-date=January 19, 2019|url-status=live}}
Joe Pantoliano as Captain Conrad Howard
Theresa Randle as Theresa Burnett, Marcus' wife{{Cite web |url=https://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/1054885-theresa-randle-will-return-as-marcus-wife-in-bad-boys-for-life |title=Theresa Randle Will Return as Marcus' Wife in Bad Boys for Life |first=Max |last=Evry|website=Comingsoon.net|date=March 30, 2019|access-date=April 26, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190405115510/https://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/1054885-theresa-randle-will-return-as-marcus-wife-in-bad-boys-for-life |archive-date=April 5, 2019 |url-status=live}}
Massi Furlan as Lee Taglin
Happy Anderson as Jenkins
Dennis Greene as Reggie Norman, Megan's husband
Bianca Bethune as Megan Burnett, Marcus and Theresa's daughter
Michael Bay as Wedding M.C.
DJ Khaled{{Cite web |url=https://variety.com/2019/film/news/dj-khaled-bad-boys-sequel-1203108932/ |title=DJ Khaled Joins 'Bad Boys' Sequel (EXCLUSIVE) |last=Kroll |first=Justin |date=January 15, 2019 |website=Variety |language=en|access-date=March 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190116095949/https://variety.com/2019/film/news/dj-khaled-bad-boys-sequel-1203108932/|archive-date=January 16, 2019|url-status=live}} as Manny the Butcher{{Cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKO56PoO1XQ |title=BAD BOYS HAS BEGUN |date=March 21, 2019 |website=YouTube |language=en|access-date=March 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190325204331/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKO56PoO1XQ|archive-date=March 25, 2019|url-status=live}}
Rory Markham as Booker Grassie
Ivo Nandi as Carver Remy

Production

=Development=

Michael Bay, the director of the first two Bad Boys films, stated in June 2008 that he might direct Bad Boys 3, but that the greatest obstacle would be cost considering both Will Smith and himself demanded some of the highest salaries in the film industry.{{Cite web |url=http://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a97301/smith-wants-to-make-bad-boys-3/ |title=Smith wants to make 'Bad Boys 3' |last=Hilton |first=Beth |date=June 3, 2008 |website=Digital Spy |language=en-GB|access-date=March 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190323111151/https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a97301/smith-wants-to-make-bad-boys-3/|archive-date=March 23, 2019|url-status=live}} By August 2009, Columbia Pictures had hired Peter Craig to write a script for the sequel.{{cite web |url=http://thefilmstage.com/2009/08/31/bad-boys-3-in-development |title='Bad Boys 3′ In Development |publisher=Thefilmstage.com |date=August 31, 2009 |access-date=October 2, 2018 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724024723/http://thefilmstage.com/2009/08/31/bad-boys-3-in-development/ |archive-date=July 24, 2011 }} In February 2011, Martin Lawrence stated that the film was in development.[http://www.bet.com/video/themoniqueshow/season2/martin-lawrence-232336.html] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110405050834/http://www.bet.com/video/themoniqueshow/season2/martin-lawrence-232336.html|date=April 5, 2011}}

Following several delays, Jerry Bruckheimer announced in June 2014 that screenwriter David Guggenheim was working on the storyline for the sequel.{{cite web |last=Reynolds |first=Simon |url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/news/a578677/jerry-bruckheimer-trying-to-get-michael-bay-back-for-bad-boys-3.html?rss |title=Jerry Bruckheimer trying to get Michael Bay back for Bad Boys 3 |website=Digital Spy |date=June 18, 2014 |access-date=October 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924123325/http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/news/a578677/jerry-bruckheimer-trying-to-get-michael-bay-back-for-bad-boys-3.html?rss |archive-date=September 24, 2015 |url-status=live}} Two months later, Lawrence said a script had been written and roles had been cast.{{cite web |author=Martin Lawrence |url=http://teamcoco.com/video/martin-lawrence-bad-boys-3 |title=Martin Lawrence Announces "Bad Boys 3" @ |publisher=Teamcoco.com |date=August 14, 2014 |access-date=October 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612164320/http://teamcoco.com/video/martin-lawrence-bad-boys-3 |archive-date=June 12, 2018 |url-status=live}} The following year in June 2015, it was reported that director Joe Carnahan was in early talks to write and possibly direct the film.{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/06/joe-carnahan-bad-boys-3-will-smith-1201440459/ |title=Joe Carnahan Circles 'Bad Boys 3' for Sony |first=Mike Jr. |last=Fleming |website=Deadline Hollywood|access-date=October 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190102084036/https://deadline.com/2015/06/joe-carnahan-bad-boys-3-will-smith-1201440459/|archive-date=January 2, 2019|url-status=dead|date=June 10, 2015 }} Sony Pictures Entertainment announced a short time later in August 2015 that there were plans for two sequels, with Bad Boys 3 scheduled for release on February 17, 2017, followed by Bad Boys 4 on July 3, 2019.{{cite news |title=Sony Pictures Dates 16 Films Through 2019! |url=https://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/468725-sony-pictures-dates-16-films |access-date=October 2, 2018 |publisher=ComingSoon.net |date=August 5, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150807171320/http://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/468725-sony-pictures-dates-16-films|archive-date=August 7, 2015|url-status=live}} In early 2016, Bad Boys 3 was pushed to June 2, 2017, with no update on the release date of Bad Boys 4.{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/03/the-dark-tower-presidents-day-weekend-2017-bad-boys-3-men-in-black-21-jump-street-1201714957/ |title=Sony Flush With 2017 Franchises With 'The Dark Tower', 'Bad Boys 3', Barbie & Maybe 'MIB23' Slotted |website=Deadline Hollywood |last=Fleming |first=Mike Jr. |date=March 4, 2016|access-date=October 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190114123603/https://deadline.com/2016/03/the-dark-tower-presidents-day-weekend-2017-bad-boys-3-men-in-black-21-jump-street-1201714957/|archive-date=January 14, 2019|url-status=live}} Producers had planned to begin production in early 2017.{{Cite web |url=https://variety.com/2016/film/news/uncharted-movie-joe-carnahan-video-game-adaptation-bad-boys-3-1201826553/ |title='Bad Boys 3' Director Joe Carnahan to Write 'Uncharted' Adaptation for Sony (EXCLUSIVE) |last=Kroll |first=Justin |date=July 29, 2016 |website=Variety |language=en|access-date=March 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170606163809/http://variety.com/2016/film/news/uncharted-movie-joe-carnahan-video-game-adaptation-bad-boys-3-1201826553/|archive-date=June 6, 2017|url-status=live}} Another delay surfaced in August 2016, when, to avoid competition with the upcoming DC Comics film Wonder Woman, the studio pushed the film's release to January 12, 2018. It was also revealed that the film would be titled Bad Boys for Life.{{cite magazine |url=https://www.ew.com/article/2016/08/11/bad-boys-3-title-bad-boys-for-life |title=Bad Boys 3 titled Bad Boys For Life, set for January 2018 |last=Robinson |first=Will |date=August 11, 2016 |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |access-date=October 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180715144758/http://ew.com/article/2016/08/11/bad-boys-3-title-bad-boys-for-life/ |archive-date=July 15, 2018 |url-status=live}} In an October 2016 interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Lawrence said filming might begin in March 2017.{{cite web |url=https://comicbook.com/2016/10/07/martin-lawrence-says-bad-boys-3-may-start-filming-in-march/ |title=Martin Lawrence Says Bad Boys 3 May Start Filming In March |publisher=Comicbook.com |last=Comicbook |first=Joe |date=October 7, 2016 |access-date=October 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170513012657/http://comicbook.com/2016/10/07/martin-lawrence-says-bad-boys-3-may-start-filming-in-march|archive-date=May 13, 2017|url-status=live}} In December 2016, an updated release date for Bad Boys 4 was set for May 24, 2019.{{cite web |last1=D'Alessandro |first1=Anthony |title='Spider-Man: Homecoming 2' Shoots Web Around Independence Day 2019; 'Bad Boys 4' Moves To Memorial Day |url=https://deadline.com/2016/12/spider-man-homecoming-2-bad-boys-4-1201867983/ |website=Deadline Hollywood |access-date=February 21, 2020 |date=December 9, 2016 |archive-date=December 10, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161210015214/http://deadline.com/2016/12/spider-man-homecoming-2-bad-boys-4-1201867983/ |url-status=live }}

Sony announced in February 2017 that the film's release would be delayed for a third time to November 9, 2018.{{cite web |url=https://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/811563-sony-pictures-2018-schedule#/slide/1 |title=Sony Pictures 2018 Schedule Shifts Hotel Transylvania, Bad Boys, Goosebumps and More |date=February 6, 2017 |access-date=October 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170207192652/http://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/811563-sony-pictures-2018-schedule#/slide/1|archive-date=February 7, 2017|url-status=live}} The following month, Carnahan left the movie due to scheduling conflicts.{{cite web |title=Director Joe Carnahan Exits 'Bad Boys 3' (Exclusive) |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/director-joe-carnahan-exits-bad-boys-3-984339/ |date=March 7, 2017 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=May 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181119164451/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/director-joe-carnahan-exits-bad-boys-3-984339|archive-date=November 19, 2018|url-status=live}} In August 2017, Sony removed the third film from their release schedule, and later in the month Lawrence said the film would not happen.{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2017/08/silver-and-black-marvel-sony-movie-sicario-2-holmes-and-watson-bad-boys-3-release-dates-1202147448/ |title=Sony Dates 'Silver And Black', 'Sicario 2'; Moves 'Holmes And Watson', 'Bad Boys 3' Unset & More |work=Deadline Hollywood |date=August 11, 2017|access-date=October 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171214160334/http://deadline.com/2017/08/silver-and-black-marvel-sony-movie-sicario-2-holmes-and-watson-bad-boys-3-release-dates-1202147448/|archive-date=December 14, 2017|url-status=live}}

Planning resumed in February 2018 as Belgian directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah were signed, after development on Beverly Hills Cop IV stalled, in place of Carnahan, and Smith and Lawrence were confirmed to reprise.{{cite news |url=https://theplaylist.net/bad-boys-life-new-directors-20180131/ |title='Bad Boys For Life' Gets New Directors, Still Dreams Of Being Made |publisher=theplaylist.net |date=February 1, 2018 |access-date=October 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813072709/https://theplaylist.net/bad-boys-life-new-directors-20180131/ |archive-date=August 13, 2018 |url-status=live }} Geek Worldwide reported that the third installment in the Bad Boys franchise would film from November 2018 to March 2019 in Miami and Atlanta, with the release date scheduled for January 17, 2020.{{Cite web |url=https://screenrant.com/will-smith-bad-boys-3-bright-2-suicide-squad-2-filming/ |title=Will Smith To Film Bad Boys 3 & Bright 2 Before Suicide Squad 2 |date=August 18, 2018 |website=ScreenRant |language=en-US|access-date=March 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180819113410/https://screenrant.com/will-smith-bad-boys-3-bright-2-suicide-squad-2-filming/|archive-date=August 19, 2018|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://thegww.com/update-will-smith-sets-production-schedules-for-bad-boys-for-life-and-bright-2-as-suicide-squad-2-is-delayed/|title=UPDATE: Will Smith Sets Production Schedules For 'Bad Boys For Life' and 'Bright 2' As 'Suicide Squad 2' Is Delayed|date=August 18, 2018|website=GWW|language=en-US|access-date=March 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180819051401/https://thegww.com/update-will-smith-sets-production-schedules-for-bad-boys-for-life-and-bright-2-as-suicide-squad-2-is-delayed/|archive-date=August 19, 2018|url-status=live}}

=Casting=

In October 2018, Variety revealed that Sony was close to green-lighting the film's production.{{cite news |last1=Lang |first1=Brent |title='Bad Boys 3' Coming Together as the Revival Plot Thickens at Sony (EXCLUSIVE) |url=https://variety.com/2018/film/news/charlies-angels-bad-boys-21-jump-street-1202952231/ |access-date=October 2, 2018 |work=Variety |date=October 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181001211823/https://variety.com/2018/film/news/charlies-angels-bad-boys-21-jump-street-1202952231/ |archive-date=October 1, 2018 |url-status=live}} It was reported in December 2018 that Joe Pantoliano would reprise his role as Captain Howard from the previous films.{{cite news |last1=N'Duka |first1=Amanda |title=Joe Pantoliano To Return For Sony's 'Bad Boys For Life' Sequel |url=https://deadline.com/2018/12/joe-pantoliano-sony-bad-boys-for-life-sequel-1202514784/ |access-date=December 6, 2018 |work=Deadline |date=December 5, 2018 |language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206115059/https://deadline.com/2018/12/joe-pantoliano-sony-bad-boys-for-life-sequel-1202514784/ |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |url-status=live}} Kate del Castillo joined the cast in early 2019,{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2019/02/kate-del-castillo-sony-bad-boys-for-life-1202561174/ |title=Kate del Castillo Cast In 'Bad Boys for Life' At Sony |website=Deadline Hollywood |first=Amanda |last=N'Duka |date=February 20, 2019 |access-date=February 20, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221111949/https://deadline.com/2019/02/kate-del-castillo-sony-bad-boys-for-life-1202561174/|archive-date=February 21, 2019|url-status=live}} and it reported soon after Theresa Randle would reprise her role as Marcus' wife, Theresa, marking her first film appearance in 10 years.{{Cite web |url=https://www.blackfilm.com/read/2019/03/exclusive-theresa-randle-to-reprise-role-in-bad-boys-for-life/ |title=Exclusive: Theresa Randle to Reprise Role in Bad Boys for Life |access-date=April 26, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190426122509/https://www.blackfilm.com/read/2019/03/exclusive-theresa-randle-to-reprise-role-in-bad-boys-for-life/ |archive-date=April 26, 2019 |url-status=live|date=March 29, 2019 }}

=Filming=

Principal photography began on January 14, 2019, in downtown Atlanta.{{cite news |title=Production Begins on Bad Boys For Life |url=https://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/1025173-bad-boys-for-life-plot-synopsis-revealed |access-date=January 8, 2019 |date=January 7, 2019}}{{cite news |title=Bad Boys for Life Begins Production, Will Smith Shares New Photo |url=https://movieweb.com/bad-boys-3-production-start-will-smith-photo/ |access-date=January 8, 2019 |work=MovieWeb |date=January 7, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107225216/https://movieweb.com/bad-boys-3-production-start-will-smith-photo/ |archive-date=January 7, 2019 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Bad Boys III filming shuts down part of Peachtree Rd, slowing down traffic |url=https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/atlanta/-bad-boys-iii-filming-slows-down-traffic-on-one-of-atlanta-s-busiest-streets/904466757 |work=WSBATL |date=January 14, 2019 |access-date=January 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190115021916/https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/atlanta/-bad-boys-iii-filming-slows-down-traffic-on-one-of-atlanta-s-busiest-streets/904466757 |archive-date=January 15, 2019 |url-status=live}} Shooting also took place in Mexico City and State of Mexico in April 2019, as well as in Miami, wrapping on June 7, 2019.{{cite news|title=Will Smith & Martin Lawrence Celebrate as Bad Boys for Life Wraps|url=https://movieweb.com/bad-boys-3-wraps-production-set-photos/|website=MovieWeb|author=Ryan Scott|access-date=February 23, 2020|date=April 19, 2019|archive-date=December 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205635/https://movieweb.com/bad-boys-3-wraps-production-set-photos/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Will Smith Shares Set Video Confirming Bad Boys for Life Wrapped Shooting |url=https://comicbook.com/movies/2019/06/07/will-smith-set-video-bad-boys-for-life-wrapped-shooting/ |last=Aguilar |first=Matthew |publisher=Comic Book |date=June 7, 2019 |access-date=June 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190619165805/https://comicbook.com/movies/2019/06/07/will-smith-set-video-bad-boys-for-life-wrapped-shooting/|archive-date=June 19, 2019|url-status=live}} Cinematographer Robrecht Heyvaert shot the film with Sony CineAlta VENICE digital cameras and Panavision Primo, G- and T-Series anamorphic lenses.{{cite web|url=https://sonycine.com/articles/-bad-boys-for-life--passes--215m-worldwide-and--120m-domestic---shot-on-venice---official-trailer/|title="Bad Boys for Life" Box Office Cruises Past $215M Worldwide and $120M Domestic - Shot on VENICE - Official Trailer|author=SonyCine Team|work=SonyCine|date=January 27, 2020|access-date=February 3, 2020}}

=Music=

The film was composed by Lorne Balfe,{{cite web |title=Lorne Balfe to Score 'Bad Boys for Life' |url=http://filmmusicreporter.com/2019/07/23/lorne-balfe-to-score-bad-boys-for-life/ |website=Film Music Reporter |access-date=July 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190723215204/http://filmmusicreporter.com/2019/07/23/lorne-balfe-to-score-bad-boys-for-life/ |archive-date=July 23, 2019 |url-status=live}} whose new music was integrated with Mark Mancina's themes from the first film. Both trailers for the film include a remix/mashup of "Bad Boys" by Inner Circle (the franchise's theme) and "Bad Boy for Life" by P. Diddy, Black Rob and Mark Curry.

The official soundtrack album to the film, Bad Boys for Life: The Soundtrack was announced by its executive producer, DJ Khaled, and released on the same day as the film. Black Eyed Peas and J Balvin recorded a song titled "Ritmo", released October 11, 2019, which served as a lead single for the film's soundtrack.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/latin/8532814/black-eyed-peas-j-balvin-ritmo|title=Black Eyed Peas & J Balvin's 'Ritmo' Will Take You Back in Time|last=Fernandez|first=Suzette|magazine=Billboard|date=October 11, 2019|access-date=October 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191011221738/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/latin/8532814/black-eyed-peas-j-balvin-ritmo|archive-date=October 11, 2019|url-status=live}}

The soundtrack also features tracks by many artists, including Nicky Jam, Quavo, Rick Ross, Meek Mill, Buju Banton, Bryson Tiller, City Girls, Pitbull,{{cite magazine|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2020/01/08/music/buju-banton-on-bad-boys-for-life-soundtrack-with-murda-she-wrote.html|title=Buju Banton On 'Bad Boys for Life' Soundtrack With 'Murda She Wrote'|last=Williams|first=Shirvan|magazine=DanceHallMag.com|date=January 8, 2020|access-date=January 8, 2020|archive-date=December 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205635/https://www.dancehallmag.com/2020/01/08/music/buju-banton-on-bad-boys-for-life-soundtrack-with-murda-she-wrote.html|url-status=live}} and DJ Durel.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/movies/8547565/bad-boys-for-life-movie-soundtrack-track-list|title='Bad Boys For Life' Soundtrack Features Meek Mill, Farruko, City Girls & More: See Full Track List|last=Roiz|first=Jessica|magazine=Billboard|date=January 8, 2020|access-date=January 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200108213258/https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/movies/8547565/bad-boys-for-life-movie-soundtrack-track-list|archive-date=January 8, 2020|url-status=live}}

Release

=Theatrical=

The first official trailer for Bad Boys for Life debuted on September 4, 2019,{{cite web|last=Tingley|first=Anna|url=https://variety.com/2019/film/news/bad-boys-for-life-trailer-will-smith-martin-lawrence-1203323258/|title='Bad Boys for Life' Trailer: Will Smith and Martin Lawrence Lay Down the Law|website=Variety|date=September 4, 2019|access-date=September 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191105151514/https://variety.com/2019/film/news/bad-boys-for-life-trailer-will-smith-martin-lawrence-1203323258/|archive-date=November 5, 2019|url-status=live}} and its second trailer was released two months later on November 5.{{cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/bad-boys-3-for-life-trailer-smith-lawrence/|title=Bad Boys for Life Trailer #2: Mike & Marcus Are Back For One Last Ride|author=Sandy Schaefer|work=Screen Rant|date=November 5, 2019|access-date=November 5, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106143751/https://screenrant.com/bad-boys-3-for-life-trailer-smith-lawrence/|archive-date=November 6, 2019|url-status=live}} Its world premiere was held at the TCL Chinese Theatre on January 14, 2020. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence arrived at the premiere driving a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S with the Bad Boys theme playing loudly from the car's audio system.{{cite web |last=Jackson |first=Angelique |title=Why Will Smith and Martin Lawrence Reunited for 'Bad Boys for Life' 25 Years Later |url=https://variety.com/2020/scene/news/will-smith-martin-lawrence-bad-boys-for-life-25-years-later-jerry-bruckheimer-1203467945/ |access-date=February 21, 2020 |website=Variety |date=January 15, 2020 |archive-date=December 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205635/https://variety.com/2020/scene/news/will-smith-martin-lawrence-bad-boys-for-life-25-years-later-jerry-bruckheimer-1203467945/ |url-status=live }} Bad Boys for Life was theatrically released in the United States on January 17, 2020, by Sony Pictures Releasing.{{cite web|url=https://www.filmoria.co.uk/turn-up-the-heat-when-bad-boys-for-life-explodes-onto-4dx-and-screenx-at-cineworld-cinemas/|title=Bad Boys For Life is in UK and Ireland cinemas from 17th January 2020|date=January 8, 2020 |publisher=Filmoria.co.uk|access-date=January 8, 2020|archive-date=December 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205729/https://www.filmoria.co.uk/turn-up-the-heat-when-bad-boys-for-life-explodes-onto-4dx-and-screenx-at-cineworld-cinemas/|url-status=live}}

=Home media=

Bad Boys for Life was released digitally in the United States and Canada through Premium VOD on March 31, 2020, before the end of the usual 90-day theatrical run.{{cite web|url=https://movieweb.com/bad-boys-digital-release-date/|title=Bad Boys for Life Gets Early Digital Release This Month|work=MovieWeb|last=Scott|first=Ryan|date=March 20, 2020|access-date=March 21, 2020|archive-date=December 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205649/https://movieweb.com/bad-boys-digital-release-date/|url-status=live}} The film was released on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on April 21, 2020.{{cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2020/03/bad-boys-for-life-drives-into-homes-early-1202890664/|title='Bad Boys For Life' Driving Into Homes Soon|work=Deadline Hollywood|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|date=March 23, 2020|access-date=March 28, 2020|archive-date=December 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205723/https://deadline.com/2020/03/bad-boys-for-life-drives-into-homes-early-1202890664/|url-status=live}}

Reception

=Box office=

Bad Boys for Life grossed $204.4 million in the United States and Canada, and $220.2 million in other territories, for a worldwide total of $424.6 million, against a production budget of $90 million. It is both the highest-grossing film in the Bad Boys franchise and the highest-grossing film released in January.{{cite web|url=https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/weekend-box-office-results-bad-boys-for-life-becomes-biggest-january-release-ever-after-17-7-million-weekend/|title=Weekend Box Office Results: Bad Boys for Life Becomes Biggest January Release Ever After $17.7 Million Weekend|last=Childress|first=Erik|work=Rotten Tomatoes|date=February 2, 2020|access-date=February 6, 2020|archive-date=December 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205639/https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/weekend-box-office-results-bad-boys-for-life-becomes-biggest-january-release-ever-after-17-7-million-weekend/|url-status=live}}

In the United States and Canada, the film was released alongside Dolittle, and was initially projected to gross $35–45 million from 3,740 theaters during its three-day opening weekend, for a total of around $48 million over the full four-day MLK weekend.{{cite web|url=https://www.thewrap.com/can-bad-boys-for-life-succeed-for-sony-where-mib-international-failed/|title=Can 'Bad Boys for Life' Succeed for Sony Where 'MIB: International' Failed?|publisher=TheWrap|author=Jeremy Fuster|date=January 14, 2020|access-date=January 15, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200115142402/https://www.thewrap.com/can-bad-boys-for-life-succeed-for-sony-where-mib-international-failed/|archive-date=January 15, 2020|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2020/01/bad-boys-for-life-dolittle-will-smith-robert-downey-jr-1917-oscar-nominations-box-office-1202831808/|title=Can 'Bad Boys For Life' Keep The Sony Franchise Alive? – Box Office Preview|website=Deadline Hollywood|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|access-date=January 15, 2020|date=January 15, 2020|archive-date=December 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205638/https://deadline.com/2020/01/bad-boys-for-life-dolittle-will-smith-robert-downey-jr-1917-oscar-nominations-box-office-1202831808/|url-status=live}} After making $23.5 million on its first day (including $6.36 million from Thursday night previews), estimates were raised to $68 million for four days. The film went on to debut to $62.2 million in its first three days, and $73.4 million over four, the second-best opening for the holiday, behind American Sniper.{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2020/01/bad-boys-for-life-dolittle-1917-weekend-box-office-1202833726/|title='Bad Boys For Life' So Great With $100M+ Worldwide; 'Dolittle' Still A Dud With $57M+ Global – Box Office Update|website=Deadline Hollywood|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|access-date=January 19, 2020|date=January 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200120213703/https://deadline.com/2020/01/bad-boys-for-life-dolittle-1917-weekend-box-office-1202833726/|archive-date=January 20, 2020|url-status=live}} It made $34 million in its second weekend and $17.7 million in its third, remaining in first place both times.{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2020/01/bad-boys-for-life-the-gentleman-the-turning-weekend-box-office-1202840184/|title='Bad Boys For Life' & '1917' Shooting Past $100M; 'The Turning' Slammed With Second 'F' Of 2020 e|website=Deadline Hollywood|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|access-date=January 26, 2020|date=January 24, 2020|archive-date=January 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200124220809/https://deadline.com/2020/01/bad-boys-for-life-the-gentleman-the-turning-weekend-box-office-1202840184/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2020/02/gretel-hansel-finds-475k-the-rhythm-section-offbeat-with-235k-thursday-night-previews-1202847821/|title='Bad Boys For Life' Scores Over Super Bowl Weekend With $17M+; 'Rhythm Section' Is A Mess|website=Deadline Hollywood|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|access-date=February 2, 2020|date=February 2, 2020|archive-date=February 1, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200201142145/https://deadline.com/2020/01/gretel-hansel-finds-475k-the-rhythm-section-offbeat-with-235k-thursday-night-previews-1202847821/|url-status=live}}

The film's release in China was delayed following the country's movie theater closures that began in January 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite web |last1=Davis |first1=Rebecca |title='Green Book,' 'Capernaum' Among Popular Movies Expected To Kickstart Chinese Cinema Reopenings |url=https://variety.com/2020/film/news/coronavirus-rerun-movies-for-china-cinema-reopening-1203538776/ |website=Variety |access-date=February 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200324191337/https://variety.com/2020/film/news/coronavirus-rerun-movies-for-china-cinema-reopening-1203538776/ |archive-date=March 24, 2020 |date=March 19, 2020 |url-status=live}} Bad Boys For Life was eventually released in China on August 14, 2020, grossing $3.2 million in its first weekend.{{Cite news |last=Tartaglione |first=Nancy |title='Harry Potter And The Sorcerer's Stone' Nears $1B WW With Magical China Reissue – International Box Office |language=en |work=Deadline Hollywood |url=https://deadline.com/2020/08/china-harry-potter-eight-hundred-interstellar-bad-boys-for-life-inception-international-box-office-coronavirus-1203013370/ |date=August 16, 2020 |access-date=August 16, 2020 |archive-date=August 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819073429/https://deadline.com/2020/08/china-harry-potter-eight-hundred-interstellar-bad-boys-for-life-inception-international-box-office-coronavirus-1203013370/ |url-status=live }} After the easing of initial restrictions in the US, the film was released in three Santikos Theatres locations in San Antonio, Texas on May 1, 2020.{{cite news | url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/san-antonio-movie-chain-reopens-early-attracts-3000-customers-1293254/ | last1=McClintock | first1=Pamela | title=San Antonio Movie Chain Reopens Early, Attracts 3,000 Customers on First Weekend | work=The Hollywood Reporter | date=May 4, 2020 | access-date=May 7, 2022 | archive-date=December 25, 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205715/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/san-antonio-movie-chain-reopens-early-attracts-3000-customers-1293254 | url-status=live }}

=Critical response=

IndieWire described reviews for Bad Boys for Life as "mostly positive",{{cite news | last=Obenson | first=Tambay | url=https://www.indiewire.com/2020/01/bad-boys-4-sequel-will-smith-martin-lawrence-1202204317/ | title='Bad Boys': Fourth Movie Starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence Is Already Being Planned | work=IndieWire | date=January 18, 2020 | access-date=January 19, 2020 | archive-date=December 25, 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205654/https://www.indiewire.com/2020/01/bad-boys-4-sequel-will-smith-martin-lawrence-1202204317/ | url-status=live }} while Screen Rant stated the critics were "generally positive".{{cite web |last1=Hunter |first1=Jim |title=Why Bad Boys For Life Reviews Are So Positive |url=https://screenrant.com/bad-boys-for-life-movie-reviews-positive-reason/ |website=Screen Rant |access-date=July 21, 2020 |date=January 18, 2018 |archive-date=December 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205656/https://screenrant.com/bad-boys-for-life-movie-reviews-positive-reason/ |url-status=live }} The review aggregation website Rotten Tomatoes reported an approval rating of {{RT data|score}} based on {{RT data|count}} reviews, and an average rating of {{RT data|average}}. The website's critics consensus reads: "Loaded up with action and a double helping of leading-man charisma, Bad Boys for Life reinvigorates this long-dormant franchise by playing squarely to its strengths."{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/bad_boys_for_life|title=Bad Boys for Life (2020)|website=Rotten Tomatoes|publisher=Fandango|access-date={{RT data|access date}}|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218160237/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/bad_boys_for_life|archive-date=December 18, 2019|url-status=live}} On Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 59 out of 100, based on 46 critics, indicating "mixed or average" reviews.{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/movie/bad-boys-for-life|title=Bad Boys for Life Reviews|website=Metacritic|access-date=February 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200115153628/https://www.metacritic.com/movie/bad-boys-for-life|archive-date=January 15, 2020|url-status=live}} Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film an average grade of "A" on an A+ to F scale, equivalent to the first two films. PostTrak reported an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, with 73% of their respondents saying they would definitely recommend it.

Todd McCarthy of The Hollywood Reporter wrote that "the third time really is the charm," and added, "The two directors roll with ease between raucous comedy and raw drama, to considerable effect, just as they crank up the tension on any number of occasions, occasionally with palpably visceral impact."{{cite web|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/bad-boys-life-review-1269838/|title='Bad Boys for Life' Film Review|work=The Hollywood Reporter|author=Tom McCarthy|date=January 15, 2020|access-date=May 7, 2022|archive-date=December 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201225205740/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/bad-boys-life-review-1269838|url-status=live}} David Ehrlich of IndieWire gave the film a "B" grade, calling it a "fun, explosive, and even thoughtful action movie," and wrote, "Bad Boys for Life doesn't aim to raise the bar on its genre or rewrite the blockbuster rulebook, but it's a blast watching Lawrence and Smith revisit these characters and find a sensible place for them in the current Hollywood landscape."{{cite news | last=Ehrlich | first=David | url= https://www.indiewire.com/2020/01/bad-boys-for-life-review-will-smith-martin-lawrence-sequel-1202203377/ | title='Bad Boys for Life' Review: Will Smith and Martin Lawrence's Long-Awaited Sequel Delivers the Goods | work=IndieWire | date=January 15, 2020 | access-date=January 19, 2020 }}

=Accolades=

class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable"
scope="col"\| Award ! scope="col"\| Category ! scope="col"\| Recipient ! scope="col"\| Result
BET Awards \| Best Movie \| \| {{nominated}}
rowspan=2\| Critics' Choice Super Awards \| Best Action Movie \| \| {{Nominated}}
Best Actor in an Action Movie \| Will Smith \| {{nominated}}
rowspan=2\| NAACP Image Awards \| Outstanding Motion Picture \| \| {{won}}
Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture \| Will Smith \| {{nominated}}
rowspan=6\| People's Choice Awards \| Favorite Movie \| \| {{won}}
Favorite Male Movie Star \| Will Smith \| {{won}}
Favorite Action Movie \| \| {{nominated}}
Favorite Action Movie Star \| Will Smith \| {{nominated}}
Favorite Action Movie Star \| Vanessa Hudgens \| {{nominated}}
Favorite Female Movie Star \| Vanessa Hudgens \| {{nominated}}
Saturn Awards \| Best Action or Adventure Film \| \| {{nom}}

class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable"

scope="col"| Award

! scope="col"| Category

! scope="col"| Recipient

! scope="col"| Result

BET Awards

| Best Movie

| {{nominated}}

rowspan=2| Critics' Choice Super Awards

| Best Action Movie

| {{Nominated}}

Best Actor in an Action Movie

| Will Smith

| {{nominated}}

rowspan=2| NAACP Image Awards

| Outstanding Motion Picture

| {{won}}

Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture

| Will Smith

| {{nominated}}

rowspan=6| People's Choice Awards

| Favorite Movie

| {{won}}

Favorite Male Movie Star

| Will Smith

| {{won}}

Favorite Action Movie

| {{nominated}}

Favorite Action Movie Star

| Will Smith

| {{nominated}}

Favorite Action Movie Star

| Vanessa Hudgens

| {{nominated}}

Favorite Female Movie Star

| Vanessa Hudgens

| {{nominated}}

Saturn Awards

| Best Action or Adventure Film

| {{nom}}

Sequel

Following the box office success of the third film, Smith and Lawrence announced that they would star in a fourth film, with Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah returning as directors and Bremner writing the script. The project was put on hold in light of the cancelled Batgirl film and the incident between Will Smith and Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards. However, the project was announced to be in development. Musician and disc jockey Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson announced that he backed out of a special appearance in the project, due to the later pre-production of the fourth film. Hudgens, Ludwig, and Núñez returned for their roles from the third film, while Tasha Smith replaced Randle for the role of Theresa Burnett. John Salley will be reprising his hacker role from the original 1995 film. Ioan Gruffudd and Rhea Seehorn joined the cast in undisclosed roles, along with Eric Dane in an undisclosed villain role. Although the filming location was revealed, it was later being put on hold the principal photography filming due to its 2023 Hollywood labor disputes on July. The film was released in the United States on June 7, 2024.