Prime Video's latest action-comedy series, 'Ride or Die,' premieres on July 15, starring Octavia Spencer and Hannah Waddingham as long-time best friends, Debbie Claybourne and Judith Burton. The premise revolves around Judith, a forensic accountant who is secretly a highly skilled assassin, a fact she has hidden from Debbie for two decades. The show launches into action when a botched assassination attempt forces Judith to reveal her true profession to Debbie, prompting an unexpected flight across Europe.
The series explores the dynamic between these "women of a certain age" (WOACAs), who, despite their different paths, share deep bonds over their love for antiques, music, and books. While Judith is a formidable contract killer, the script portrays Debbie, a former lawyer and campaign manager for her politician husband, as the more emotionally resilient and resourceful of the two, adept at problem-solving from her experience and crime novel reading.
'Ride or Die' features a supporting cast including Bill Nighy as Judith's ruthless employer, Ed Skrein as a flirtatious mark, Sylvia Hoeks as a "cheerfully unhinged" killer, and Jamie Parker as Debbie's buffoonish husband. While some critics note that the action sequences, particularly hand-to-hand combat, wane after a strong start, the show's primary appeal lies in the comedic chemistry between Waddingham and Spencer, and the witty ensemble performances. This strong connection helps to smooth over plot complexities and occasional narrative hiccups.
Despite some critiques about an overstuffed plot and certain clichés, the show is praised for its humor and the heartfelt portrayal of female friendship. The series is produced by Tessa Coates and offers a blend of thrills and emotional depth. While it might not have the grand scale of some action franchises, its focus on the compelling relationship between the two leads makes it an engaging watch, potentially paving the way for future seasons.
