There may be a bit of both at work here. “Bad Boys For Life” was the last box office hit before Covid changed the way we watched movies for nearly two years, grossing over $426 million at the box office, a series high, and evidence that “Bad Boys” is a legitimate blockbuster franchise.
So, of course, studio execs want to keep pairing Will Smith and Martin Lawrence for these big-budget blast delivery vehicles. And Will Smith is an undeniable star that audiences still want to see on screen. But did the slap change that?
Honestly, the only way to find out is to see how his next big movie fares. I feel like if he does an apology tour and is sincerely sorry, that will be enough for the wider audience, especially if Chris Rock accepts it as authentic. Whether he deserves a return is up for debate and it will be up to all of us to make that decision individually, but the more I consider Lawrence’s words, the more convinced I am that the producers are quietly moving forward with “Bad Boys 4” as Smith. he keeps a low profile.
Bottom line: People like to watch Will Smith, especially in movies like “Bad Boys.”
It’ll be a minute before we get confirmation one way or the other, but I’m inclined to think Lawrence isn’t just fuming here.
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