Ride or Die, the new Amazon Prime series starring Hannah Waddingham and Octavia Spencer, is a high-octane buddy comedy that balances belly laughs with gruesome violence. The eight-episode series, created by Tessa Coates, follows two best friends forced on the run after a hit goes wrong.
Plot and Premise
Debbie Claybourne (Octavia Spencer) is an upstanding citizen and wife of MP David (Jamie Parker), writing his speeches and running his career. Judith Burton (Hannah Waddingham) appears to be a forensic accountant but is actually a deadly assassin recruited as a teenager by her boss, The Director (Bill Nighy). The two bond over antiques and book club. At a gala, Judith is meant to kill criminal Billy Donovan (Ed Skrein), but the mission fails, exposing Judith's secret and forcing both women on a road trip across Europe while being pursued by law enforcement and assassins.
Cast and Performances
Octavia Spencer plays Debbie, while Hannah Waddingham portrays Judith. Ed Skrein stars as Billy Donovan, Calam Lynch as Sam, Savannah Steyn as Queenie, Jamie Parker as David, Sylvia Hoeks as Ana, Bill Nighy as The Director, and Jacky Ido as Jacques. Hannah, 51, and Octavia, 56, deliver comedic chemistry, with Hannah performing nearly all her own stunts.
Tone and Violence
The series strikes a balance between comedy and action, with bickering and gossip between the leads. However, the violence is extreme—one character has part of an ear bitten off. Characters introduced for comic relief can be killed suddenly. The show doesn't pull punches, making it more than a lighthearted romp.
Critical Reception
According to the review, Ride or Die is 'the most fun I’ve had watching TV in ages.' It acknowledges clichés but praises the rip-roaring fun, recommending bingeing all episodes. The female friendship at the core is highlighted as beautiful, reminiscent of Thelma and Louise or Bridesmaids.
Availability
All eight episodes are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
