Cast
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Nick Nolte
as Jack Cates
Eddie Murphy
as Reggie Hammond
Annette O'Toole
as Elaine
Frank McRae
as Haden
James Remar
as Albert Ganz
David Patrick Kelly
as Luther
Sonny Landham
as Billy Bear
Brion James
as Ben Kehoe
Kerry Sherman
as Rosalie, Hostage Girl
Jonathan Banks
as Algren
James Keane
as Vanzant
Tara King
as Frizzy, Hotel Desk Clerk
Greta Blackburn
as Lisa, Blonde Hooker
Margot Rose
as Casey
Denise Crosby
as Sally
Crew
Director
- Walter Hill
Writer
- Walter Hill
- Roger Spottiswoode
- Larry Gross
- Steven E. de Souza
Producer
- Joel Silver
- Lawrence Gordon
Reviews
John Chard
You switch from an armed robber to a pimp, you're all set.
A hard as nails cop reluctantly teams up with a wise-cracking criminal temporarily paroled to him, in order to track down an escaped convict cop killer.
The mismatched buddy buddy formula exploded onto the screen here in a ball of violence, profanity and pin sharp one liners. It also launched Eddie Murphy into 1980s stardom. Directed by Walter Hill and starring Nick Nolte alongside Murphy as part of an electrifying black and white double act, it's unrelenting in pace and bad attitude. It could have been so different though, with the likes of Stallone, Reynolds, Pryor and Hines attached at various times for lead parts, it now is written in folklore that Murphy got the break and grasped it with both hands (he was actually fired at one point mind!). Thankfully the problems behind the scenes were resolved to give us a classic of its type.
A big success for Paramount it paved the way for more choice same formula pictures in the decade, but few were able to be so course and daring with the racial divide explosions. Murphy is outstanding, quick as an A.K. 47 in vocal delivery and with visual comedic ticks in full effect, he plays off of the also excellent gruff rough and tough Nolte superbly. Unsurprisingly the plot trajectory is simple enough, but such is the writing and performances (James Remar, Sonny Landham and David Patrick Kelly in support) it's one hell of a live wire ride from start to finish.
In amongst the verbal and action carnage you find plenty of 80s pop culture, with a blunderbuss sound track and a score from James Horner that pings around the Los Angeles locales (he would rework it for Arnie starrer Commando in 1985). This points to a time where now it is perceived as being tactless and a relic, and yet it instils realism as it captures the zeitgeist of the era. So not one for the easily offended then, but for nostalgics and those interested in the expansion of the action comedy formula, then this is a must see that still delivers high octane entertainment. 8/10
Apr 22, 2019
JPV852
Entertaining buddy action-comedy that features a good antagonistic relationship between Nolte and Murphy. The plot isn't the strongest but the action/fight scenes were alright. **3.25/5**
Jul 2, 2021
Andre Gonzales
Back to the old school. Love this movie. This is when cop movies started to have some comedy in it.
Aug 21, 2023
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Crime/Action/Comedy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, 48 Hrs. distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Walter Hill brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1982, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of 48 Hrs. took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $12.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 177 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While 48 Hrs. shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Show Dogs, which focuses more on action than character development, 48 Hrs. offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like '71 and Carne explore similar territory, 48 Hrs. stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 7, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 36m
- Budget: $12,000,000
- Revenue: $78,868,508
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