Film Review: Rush Hour 3

Rush Hour 3, the final comedic chapter in the classic mismatched buddy Rush Hour series, hit theaters about a month ago (I saw it on opening night). As a huge fan of the series, I had high hopes that Chan and Tucker would deliver another hilarious addition to the franchise. Was this another classic, or a dud?

Let me start off by saying that Rush Hour 3 is easily the weakest of the series. However, do not mistake that for me saying I did not enjoy the film, because the truth is that I did. The laughs and action were both present, and done in classic Rush Hour fashion. Tucker was himself as he poked fun at Chan for ninety minutes, all while the elderly ninja continued to astound with stunts (though he did use a stunt double more for this film).

All the elements of a Rush Hour film are here, exactly as they should be. In actuality, this is the third release of the same movie. Rarely in a trilogy are all three installments exact copies of one another, but in this case it is the truth. The same jokes, the same forgettable plot, the same clueless police officer and the same old guy running up walls…and it should not be any other way.

Director Brett Ratner has put together three films that are all hilarious, action-packed, and entertaining. Chris Tucker is in top form, and Jackie Chan does impress despite all my knocks on his age. A few new faces join The story is absurd, but were you really expecting anything else? RH3 also continues the tradition of providing the greatest out-takes today.

I entered the theater desiring a Rush Hour movie, and my expectations were completely fulfilled, though the ending puts little closure on the series. If you wanted to see this movie, you should know what you are getting: entertainment by Carter and Lee. Sit back and have some fun.

8/10