"The Pickup," starring Eddie Murphy and Pete Davidson, attempts to blend action and comedy but mostly delivers a chaotic and flawed experience. The film, directed by Tim Story, hinges on the mismatched buddy-cop dynamic between Russell (Murphy), a veteran armored truck driver on the cusp of retirement, and Travis (Davidson), his somewhat dimwitted, math-savvy new partner. Their routine pickups are disrupted when they become entangled in an elaborate heist orchestrated by Zoe (Keke Palmer).
Several critics have pointed out the movie's generic and uninspired plot. The setup is riddled with clichés: Russell dreams of opening a bed and breakfast with his wife, Natalie (Eva Longoria), while Travis is the screw-up with a surprising talent. The heist itself involves unbelievable scenarios and physics-defying stunts, making it hard to suspend disbelief. For example, professional drivers fail to notice someone climbing into the back of their armored truck, and a motorcycle helmet withstands direct gunfire.
The chemistry between the leads is also questionable. Murphy seems disengaged, only occasionally hinting at his comedic brilliance. Davidson's over-the-top antics sometimes feel out of place, contributing to the film's tonal inconsistencies. Keke Palmer brings some spark to her role, but her character remains superficial. Eva Longoria, in a limited appearance, manages to bring some groundedness to her scenes, offering a few of the film's funnier moments.
Many reviews have criticized the writing by Matt Mider and Kevin Burrows, highlighting the flat exposition and predictable twists. Dialogue often feels forced, and the characters lack depth. The film also wastes the talents of its supporting cast, including Andrew Dice Clay, who plays Russell's boss. Even Marshawn Lynch's brief appearance couldn't salvage the film.
Some reviewers have noted the film's missed opportunities for both comedy and tension. The action sequences lack excitement, and the humor falls flat. The movie feels strangely empty, as if it exists in a pocket universe with very few people. Despite its talented cast, "The Pickup" fails to deliver a cohesive or memorable experience.
Ultimately, "The Pickup" is a forgettable action-comedy that squanders its potential. It's a bland and generic film that is unlikely to leave a lasting impression, and some critics are calling it one of the worst movies of the year. While the cast may have looked promising on paper, the execution leaves much to be desired.
