Hannah Waddingham is drawing critical acclaim for her role as a glamorous secret assassin in Prime Video's new action-comedy series, "Ride Or Die." The eight-part show, created by Tessa Coates, premiered on Wednesday and has garnered positive early reviews, with many critics highlighting the "electric chemistry" between Waddingham, 51, and co-star Octavia Spencer, 56.
The series follows Judith Burton (Waddingham) and Debbie Claybourne (Spencer), long-time best friends whose lives are upended when a botched assassination attempt reveals Judith's hidden identity as an international assassin. The show currently holds a 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Critics have lauded the magnetic bond between the two leads. The Telegraph awarded the series four stars, suggesting that while the plot may not be the primary draw, the "two central performances and the chemistry between them" make it enjoyable. The publication noted Waddingham's "charisma and energy" powering the adventure, while also recognizing Spencer's comedic prowess.
A "Comedy Thriller Caper of Your Dreams"
The Guardian described "Ride Or Die" as a "perimenopausal comedy thriller caper of your dreams," celebrating the unusual premise of two fifty-something actors portraying action heroes. The review emphasized the joy of watching the actors "spark off each other and throw themselves into rare and unlikely parts," encouraging viewers to "Get Waddinghammed."
The Wall Street Journal found the series "compelling," noting Waddingham's suitability for both action sequences and comedic moments. The review posited the series as an "action-comedy response to the assorted woman-centric series" and concluded that while it "over-accelerate[s] en route to a climax," the premise is refashioned into something compelling with significant cast assistance.
However, some critics pointed to plot complexities. The Hollywood Reporter praised the actors' connection, stating it "helps gloss over some of the show’s flaws, which include an overly complicated plot." The publication also questioned whether the premise might have been better suited as a feature film.
Variety drew parallels to "Thelma & Louise," noting that while the humor is less punchy, the series upholds the "power of female friendships." The outlet highlighted the "robust and genuine chemistry" between Spencer and Waddingham, calling it a "companionship that will undoubtedly resonate with countless viewers."
The LA Times echoed criticisms of the plot's complexity and underdeveloped romantic subplots, but acknowledged the straightforward narrative and themes of female friendship, aging, and self-acceptance. The series, comprising all eight episodes, is now available for streaming on Prime Video.
