Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Formulaic sequel has violence, some funny moments.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Ride Along 2
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 5 parent reviews
Based on 13 kid reviews
Kids say this movie mixes humor and action well, though it's important to note that it contains a significant amount of violence, strong language, and sexual references, making it more suitable for older teens and adults. While some viewers appreciate the comedic elements, others found the jokes and plot lacking, cautioning against younger audiences due to its content.
- action packed
- strong language
- adult themes
- mixed reviews
- family viewing
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
A week before his wedding, Atlanta probationary cop Ben Barber (Kevin Hart) and his soon-to-be brother-in-law, veteran detective James Payton (Ice Cube), head to Miami on a mission to take down crime boss Antonio Pope (Benjamin Bratt), who's leading a double life as a legitimate Miami businessman. Convincing everyone else that Pope isn't what he seems may prove difficult. And it's unclear whether the guys can trust the hacker (Ken Jeong) who's double-crossed Pope and is now working with them. A local cop (Olivia Munn) might be able to help, but will she be enough to take on an entire crime syndicate?
Is It Any Good?
The original Ride Along smoothed over some of its many inconsistencies with the chemistry between its two leads; RIDE ALONG 2 doubles down on this formula, but it's wearing thin. Watching Hart and Cube develop into possible brothers-in-law in the first movie was reason enough to, yes, ride along with the thin plot. But this time around, Hart's Ben Barber doesn't seem to have gained any competency -- which would be fine, except the film relies on this cliche too many times. (Nonetheless, Hart still manages to squeeze some laughs out of the passable script.)
Adding Jeong to the equation mixes up the dynamic, but not by much. And Munn is a welcome addition, but the cast's considerable talents -- they're just fun to watch onscreen -- are wasted in this underwhelming sequel.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Ride Along 2. How does the movie's comedic tone affect its impact? Are all types of media violence created equal?
How is this movie different from, or similar to, other buddy comedies? Which are your favorites, and why?
Why do you think Ben puts up with his future brother-in-law's disdain? Does that seem realistic?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 15, 2016
- On DVD or streaming : April 26, 2016
- Cast : Ice Cube , Kevin Hart , Olivia Munn
- Director : Tim Story
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Director(s) , Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Friendship
- Run time : 101 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : sequences of violence, sexual content, language and some drug material
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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