Ride or Die: A Genre-Bending Spy Comedy with a Heart of Gold
In a world that's too afraid to give us a female James Bond, Prime Video's 'Ride or Die' is the next best thing. Created by British multihyphenate Tessa Coates, this miniseries is a genre-bending spy comedy that casts Hannah Waddingham as a seasoned assassin, pushing 50, who's never known anything but the thrill of the kill. When paired with her best friend, played by Octavia Spencer, the premise might seem like another run-of-the-mill action-comedy about two people who think they know everything about each other until one of them reveals her true profession. But in execution, the team-up of Coates, Waddingham, and Spencer creates something far more intriguing.
The show has one foot in comedy, while the other grounds its premise in the harsh reality that Waddingham's character, Judith, has created for herself by having a civilian best friend like Spencer's Debbie. The two leads constantly challenge each other, especially when they're not interested in being challenged. This dynamic is a key strength of the show, as it explores the complexities of their relationships and the reasons behind their actions.
The ensemble cast is another highlight of 'Ride or Die'. While Judith and Debbie's misadventures seem to be the focus at first, the story unfolds to reveal a web of connections and adversaries. Calam Lynch and Ed Skrein deliver unexpected highlights, adding depth to the otherwise one-dimensional spy-fiction archetypes. Coates, who has a background in stand-up and sketch comedy, ensures that the show never shies away from bending the genre and forming its own identity.
One of the most fascinating aspects of 'Ride or Die' is its celebration of women and their capabilities. The show shines a light on the often-insulted concept of women using their social media sleuthing skills, as seen in a memorable scene where Judith and Debbie turn to a hostel full of party girls for help. This scene is both inspired and empowering, showcasing the strength and resourcefulness of women in a world that often undervalues them.
However, the show's pacing and character development take a hit in the final episodes. The transition between the penultimate episode and the finale is rushed, with too many emotional gut punches to process. This might be a reflection of the high-stakes life of an assassin, but it doesn't make for the best storytelling. Despite this, the action sequences are a highlight, with Waddingham taking a beating and mobster fights that look authentic and inflict realistic wounds, thanks to the practical makeup.
Waddingham's performance is a standout, showcasing her wicked competence and desirability. Her age (she turns 52 at the end of July) is emphasized, challenging the industry's norms and proving that women of a certain age can be both desirable and capable. Similarly, Debbie is portrayed as capable of desire and worthy of being desired, subverting expectations and adding a refreshing layer to the story.
'Ride or Die' is a series that embraces its identity and sticks to it, for better and worse. It's a spy comedy that doesn't shy away from challenges, and it offers a unique and entertaining take on the genre. With its strong cast, clever writing, and celebration of women, 'Ride or Die' is a must-watch for fans of comedy, action, and smart storytelling.
