If you loved the thrilling yet comedic ride of 'Midnight Run' (1988), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same blend of action, humor, and unlikely partnerships that made 'Midnight Run' a classic. Whether you're a fan of Robert De Niro's bounty hunter antics or the film's perfect balance of tension and laughs, these recommendations will keep you entertained.

48 Hrs. (1982)
Description: Similar to 'Midnight Run', '48 Hrs.' is a buddy action-comedy that pairs an unlikely duo—a tough cop and a fast-talking convict—on a mission against time. Both films blend humor with intense action sequences, showcasing the chemistry between the leads and the tension of a ticking clock.
Fact: Eddie Murphy's debut film role. The film was originally intended for Clint Eastwood and Richard Pryor. The title refers to the 48-hour parole given to the convict character.


Lethal Weapon (1987)
Description: Like 'Midnight Run', 'Lethal Weapon' is a quintessential buddy cop film that combines action, comedy, and drama. The dynamic between the reckless Martin Riggs and the cautious Roger Murtaugh mirrors the mismatched partnership in 'Midnight Run', with both films exploring themes of redemption and camaraderie.
Fact: Mel Gibson performed many of his own stunts. The film spawned three sequels and a TV series. Danny Glover was only 41 when he played the 'too old for this' Murtaugh.


Stakeout (1987)
Description: This film shares 'Midnight Run's' premise of surveillance and pursuit, blending action with comedic moments. The chemistry between the two leads and the tension of their mission mirror the dynamics in 'Midnight Run'.
Fact: Richard Dreyfuss and Emilio Estevez starred as the leads. The film was followed by a sequel, 'Another Stakeout'. It was one of the highest-grossing films of


Red Heat (1988)
Description: Like 'Midnight Run', 'Red Heat' pairs two contrasting characters—a Soviet cop and an American detective—on a mission. The film's blend of action, humor, and cultural clashes is similar to the dynamic in 'Midnight Run'.
Fact: Arnold Schwarzenegger's first role as a Soviet officer. The first American film to shoot in Moscow's Red Square. The film's climax was shot in Chicago during winter.


Tango & Cash (1989)
Description: A high-octane buddy cop film like 'Midnight Run', 'Tango & Cash' pairs two rival cops forced to work together. The film's mix of over-the-top action and humor, along with the protagonists' constant bickering, echoes the tone of 'Midnight Run'.
Fact: Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell reportedly clashed on set. The film was originally intended to be more serious. It was a commercial success despite mixed reviews.


The Last Boy Scout (1991)
Description: This film shares 'Midnight Run's' gritty tone and dark humor, featuring a washed-up detective and a disgraced athlete teaming up against corruption. The film's mix of action and witty dialogue is reminiscent of 'Midnight Run'.
Fact: Bruce Willis and Damon Wayans starred as the leads. The script was written by Shane Black, known for his buddy action films. The film was a box office success.


Rush Hour (1998)
Description: Like 'Midnight Run', 'Rush Hour' is a buddy action-comedy that pairs two contrasting characters—a by-the-book cop and a loose cannon—on a mission. The film's mix of humor and action, along with the leads' chemistry, is similar to 'Midnight Run'.
Fact: Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker starred as the leads. The film spawned two sequels. It was a massive box office hit, grossing over $240 million.


Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)
Description: Like 'Midnight Run', this film is a comedic crime thriller with a mismatched duo navigating a dangerous plot. The sharp dialogue and self-aware humor mirror the tone of 'Midnight Run'.
Fact: Robert Downey Jr.'s comeback role. The title references a James Bond poster slogan. The film was a critical success but a box office flop.


The Other Guys (2010)
Description: This film shares 'Midnight Run's' buddy cop formula, blending action with absurd humor. The dynamic between the straight-laced and reckless detectives echoes the partnership in 'Midnight Run'.
Fact: Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg starred as the leads. The film features a famous 'desk pop' joke. It was a commercial success, grossing over $170 million.


The Nice Guys (2016)
Description: This film shares 'Midnight Run's' blend of comedy and crime thriller, featuring two mismatched private investigators navigating a dangerous and absurd underworld. The witty banter and chaotic chase sequences are reminiscent of the dynamic in 'Midnight Run'.
Fact: Set in 1970s Los Angeles, it pays homage to noir films. Ryan Gosling improvised many of his lines. The film was a box office disappointment but gained a cult following.
