10 Movies & Shows Similar to Lethal Weapon (1987)

Description: Often credited as one of the first buddy-cop films, '48 Hrs.' set the template that 'Lethal Weapon' would later perfect. The film pairs a tough cop with a wisecracking criminal, creating a dynamic similar to Riggs and Murtaugh. The blend of action, humor, and tension is a hallmark of both films.

Fact: Eddie Murphy's performance in '48 Hrs.' was a breakout role that launched his film career. The film was originally intended to be a serious drama but was rewritten to include more humor. It was one of the first films to feature a predominantly African American cast in a mainstream action movie.

Description: Like 'Lethal Weapon', 'Beverly Hills Cop' combines action with comedy, featuring a charismatic lead who defies authority. The film's blend of humor and action, along with a memorable soundtrack, makes it a spiritual cousin to 'Lethal Weapon'. Eddie Murphy's Axel Foley is as iconic as Mel Gibson's Riggs.

Fact: Sylvester Stallone was originally cast as Axel Foley but left due to creative differences. The film's success spawned two sequels and a TV series. It was the highest-grossing R-rated film until 'The Matrix Reloaded'.

Description: Similar to 'Lethal Weapon', 'Die Hard' is a quintessential action film that blends intense action sequences with humor and a charismatic lead. Both films feature a lone cop taking on overwhelming odds, with a mix of serious stakes and lighthearted moments. The buddy-cop dynamic in 'Lethal Weapon' is mirrored in 'Die Hard' through the interactions between John McClane and Al Powell.

Fact: 'Die Hard' was based on the novel 'Nothing Lasts Forever' by Roderick Thorp. Bruce Willis was not the first choice for the role of John McClane; Frank Sinatra was offered the role due to a contractual obligation. The film was initially criticized for its violence but has since become a classic of the genre.

Description: As a direct sequel, 'Lethal Weapon 2' maintains the same blend of action, humor, and character dynamics as the original. The film expands on the Riggs-Murtaugh relationship while introducing new villains and higher stakes. The formula that made the first film successful is fully intact here.

Fact: The film's villains were inspired by real-life apartheid-era South African diplomats. Joe Pesci was added to the cast to provide more comedic relief. It was the highest-grossing film of 1989 in the U.S.

Description: 'Tango & Cash' is another buddy-cop film that pairs two contrasting personalities, much like 'Lethal Weapon'. The film features over-the-top action sequences and a healthy dose of humor, similar to the tone of 'Lethal Weapon'. The rivalry-turned-partnership between the leads is a key similarity.

Fact: Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell reportedly clashed during filming. The film was originally intended to be a serious action movie but was rewritten to include more comedy. It was a box office success despite mixed reviews.

Description: This film shares the gritty, hard-boiled action style of 'Lethal Weapon', with a focus on a disillusioned cop taking on corruption. The banter between Bruce Willis and Damon Wayans echoes the Riggs-Murtaugh dynamic. The film's blend of dark humor and intense action is reminiscent of 'Lethal Weapon'.

Fact: The script was written by Shane Black, who also wrote 'Lethal Weapon'. The film was initially rated NC-17 for violence but was edited to secure an R rating. It was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following.

Description: This sequel continues the adventures of Riggs and Murtaugh, with the same mix of action and humor. The film explores deeper aspects of their friendship while delivering the expected set pieces. The addition of Rene Russo adds a new dynamic to the duo.

Fact: The film was originally intended to be the final installment in the series. It features one of the most expensive car chases ever filmed at the time. Despite mixed reviews, it was a box office success.

Description: 'Bad Boys' shares the buddy-cop formula of 'Lethal Weapon', with two mismatched partners who bicker but ultimately work well together. The film combines action, comedy, and a fast-paced narrative, much like 'Lethal Weapon'. The chemistry between Will Smith and Martin Lawrence is reminiscent of Mel Gibson and Danny Glover's dynamic.

Fact: 'Bad Boys' was originally written for Dana Carvey and Jon Lovitz. It was Michael Bay's directorial debut. The film's success helped establish Will Smith as a leading man in action films.

Description: 'Rush Hour' follows the buddy-cop formula with a comedic twist, much like 'Lethal Weapon'. The pairing of Jackie Chan's martial arts prowess with Chris Tucker's fast-talking humor creates a dynamic similar to Gibson and Glover's. The film balances action and comedy, a key feature of 'Lethal Weapon'.

Fact: 'Rush Hour' was inspired by the success of 'Lethal Weapon' and other buddy-cop films. Jackie Chan performed all his own stunts in the film. The film's success led to two sequels and cemented Chan's popularity in Hollywood.

Description: The final installment in the series retains the core elements that made 'Lethal Weapon' a hit: action, humor, and the Riggs-Murtaugh partnership. The film introduces new characters while giving the original duo a fitting send-off.

Fact: Jet Li made his Hollywood debut in this film. The film's production was plagued by delays and budget overruns. It was the lowest-grossing film in the series but still profitable.