The recently released Bad Boys: Ride or Die was anticipated to be a robust summer hit, and it has exceeded those expectations. This entry in the 2024 movie schedule has performed well at the box office, propelling the franchise to a global $1 billion milestone. Will Smith, who marked this achievement with a heartfelt message to fans, has been relishing the acclaim. Following the sequel’s success, Smith has landed another acting role.
Will Smith’s Next Project
Sony, the studio behind the Bad Boys franchise, is producing Will Smith’s newly secured project, Resistor, a science-fiction film based on Daniel Suarez’s 2014 novel, Influx. Although a director has not yet been attached, Deadline reports that discussions for a filmmaker will commence soon. The script has been penned by Zak Olkewicz (Bullet Train) and Eric Warren Singer (Top Gun: Maverick).
The storyline of the novel revolves around a physicist named Jon Grady who confronts a secret organization, The Bureau of Technology Control. After Grady and his team create a device that manipulates gravity, the bureau seeks to recruit him. When he refuses, Grady is imprisoned and must join forces with other inmates to combat this shadowy enemy.
This role aligns perfectly with Will Smith’s history in science fiction. He has previously starred in the Men in Black series, Independence Day, I, Robot, I Am Legend, and Gemini Man. It will be a welcome return to the genre for Smith. However, Resistor may not be Smith’s next film due to his busy schedule, which includes another thriller titled Sugar Bandits by Chuck Hogan. Sony’s decision to team up with Smith again is driven by the strong performance of the latest Bad Boys film.
Box Office Performance of Bad Boys: Ride or Die
Bad Boys: Ride or Die opened strong at the box office, earning $56 million domestically and $46.6 million internationally over its first weekend, amounting to a $104.6 million global haul. As of now, the film has garnered over $215 million worldwide. This success could bode well for the franchise’s future.
Although the studio has not confirmed another installment, Will Smith has mentioned the possibility of a fifth film with Martin Lawrence, emphasizing the need for a compelling “reason” to revisit their characters. Despite this, Smith’s packed schedule may delay any potential follow-up.
Resistor promises to be an intriguing addition to Smith’s career, and its reception will likely hinge on the success of his latest films. Bad Boys: Ride or Die indicates that Smith remains a profitable presence in the cinema.
Wrapping Up
Catch Bad Boys: Ride or Die in theaters now and stream the first three installments with a Hulu subscription.
