10 Movies & Shows Similar to Lethal Weapon (2016)

Description: '48 Hrs.' is a precursor to the buddy-cop genre that 'Lethal Weapon (2016)' embodies, featuring a mismatched pair forced to work together under tight deadlines. The film combines action, comedy, and a gritty urban setting, much like the tone of 'Lethal Weapon'.

Fact: '48 Hrs.' is often credited as the first true buddy-cop movie. Eddie Murphy's performance in the film launched his career as a movie star. The film was originally intended to be a serious action thriller without comedic elements.

Description: Like 'Lethal Weapon (2016)', 'Beverly Hills Cop' combines action with comedy, featuring a street-smart detective who doesn't play by the rules. Both films highlight the clash between unconventional policing methods and bureaucratic red tape.

Fact: Eddie Murphy was not the first choice for the lead role; Sylvester Stallone was originally attached. The film's success spawned two sequels and a planned TV series. The iconic 'Axel F' theme was composed by Harold Faltermeyer.

Description: The original 'Lethal Weapon' is the blueprint for 'Lethal Weapon (2016)', establishing the buddy-cop formula with its mix of action, humor, and emotional depth. The dynamic between Riggs and Murtaugh is iconic and directly influences the TV series.

Fact: Mel Gibson was not the first choice for Riggs; several other actors were considered. The film's success led to three sequels. Shane Black's script was highly sought after in Hollywood.

Description: 'Die Hard' shares with 'Lethal Weapon (2016)' a focus on a lone hero facing overwhelming odds, with a mix of intense action and character-driven drama. Both films are seminal works in the action genre, influencing countless successors.

Fact: Bruce Willis was primarily known for comedy before 'Die Hard' changed his career trajectory. The film is based on the novel 'Nothing Lasts Forever' by Roderick Thorp. It was initially met with mixed reviews but has since been recognized as a classic.

Description: 'Tango & Cash' mirrors 'Lethal Weapon (2016)' in its pairing of two very different cops who must overcome their differences to take down a common enemy. The film is known for its over-the-top action and witty banter between the leads.

Fact: Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell reportedly did not get along during filming. The film went through several directors and script rewrites. It was one of the highest-grossing films of

Description: This film shares 'Lethal Weapon (2016)''s blend of dark humor, violent action, and a cynical yet heroic protagonist. Both films feature protagonists with troubled personal lives who find redemption through their professional duties.

Fact: The script was written by Shane Black, who also wrote the original 'Lethal Weapon'. Bruce Willis took the role after several other actors turned it down. The film's original ending was much darker but was changed after test screenings.

Description: Similar to 'Lethal Weapon (2016)', 'Bad Boys' features a buddy-cop dynamic with contrasting personalities, high-octane action sequences, and a mix of humor and drama. Both films explore themes of loyalty, justice, and personal demons, with a strong emphasis on the partnership between the leads.

Fact: 'Bad Boys' was Will Smith's first leading role in a major motion picture. The film was directed by Michael Bay, marking his feature film directorial debut. The original script was written with Dana Carvey and Jon Lovitz in mind for the lead roles.

Description: Sharing 'Lethal Weapon (2016)''s blend of action and humor, 'Kiss Kiss Bang Bang' also features a protagonist out of his depth in a criminal underworld. The film's witty dialogue and noir influences are reminiscent of the buddy-cop genre.

Fact: The film marked Robert Downey Jr.'s comeback after personal struggles. It was also directed by Shane Black. The title references a famous essay by Pauline Kael about the James Bond films.

Description: A comedic take on the buddy-cop genre, 'The Other Guys' parallels 'Lethal Weapon (2016)' in its exploration of police partnerships and office politics, albeit with a more satirical tone.

Fact: The film features an unexpected cameo by Dwayne Johnson and Samuel L. Jackson. It was inspired by real-life 'desk cops' who solve major crimes. The end credits include a detailed breakdown of financial crimes, a unique feature for a comedy.

Description: This film, like 'Lethal Weapon (2016)', pairs two mismatched investigators in a story that balances crime-solving with comedic moments. Both have a retro vibe and a focus on character chemistry.

Fact: The film is set in 1970s Los Angeles, capturing the era's aesthetic. It was directed by Shane Black, who also wrote 'Lethal Weapon'. Despite critical acclaim, the film underperformed at the box office.