Buddy cop action-comedies are often a lot of fun, a recipe for brilliance at their best. The Lethal Weapon series set a high bar, such as Rush Hour, 21 Jump Street, The Nice Guys, and The Other Guys. Each of these succeeds in throwing very different investigators/ cops/detectives into the thick of something just dangerous enough to be fun, funny, and high-octane. Angel Manuel Soto’s The Wrecking Crew follows a pair of unconventional half-brothers trying to get to the bottom of a dangerous criminal enterprise that would change the face of Hawaii. Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista feel born to play very different, equally powerful brothers, with a strong dynamic, and each with seasoned comedic timing and action chops. The mystery at its core isn’t necessarily going to rival the best film noir or thriller plotting, but it’s fun, with adrenaline-pumping action, delivering a lot of fun in a sunny, gorgeous locale.
What Is ‘The Wrecking Crew’ About?
Table of Contents
- 1. What Is ‘The Wrecking Crew’ About?
- 2. Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa Are Perfectly Matched for a Buddy Cop Outing
- 3. Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista Are Excellent as Mismatched Investigative Siblings
- 4. What are the release details for Prime Video’s new action film featuring Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa?
- 5. Prime Video’s New Action Film Features a Perfect Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa Duo
- 6. The Dynamic Duo: Bautista’s Grounded Strength & Momoa’s Untamed Energy
- 7. Action Sequences: Practical Effects & Visceral Combat
- 8. Beyond the Action: A Surprisingly Nuanced Narrative
- 9. The Rise of the Action Buddy Cop Formula – Revisited
- 10. Production details & Behind-the-Scenes Insights
- 11. Streaming availability & future Prospects
The father of half-brothers Jonny (Momoa), a loose-cannon cop, and ex-Navy SEAL James Hale (Bautista) is found dead on a Chinatown street shortly after mailing a package. The brothers weren’t close to their father, a private investigator who may have gotten too deep in an investigation, but Jonny decides to get to the bottom of it after a Yakuza crew tries to kill him at home in search of said package. Their investigation forces the brothers to confront their complicated history against a slew of dangers, which unearths a surprising conspiracy with connections to their family.
Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa Are Perfectly Matched for a Buddy Cop Outing
For a buddy cop comedy to really work, the dynamic of the central pair is almost more important than their strengths as individuals. Fortunately, The Wrecking Crew predominantly succeeds on both fronts. Jason Momoa is fantastic when playing a wild, violent, uncontrollable force (there’s a reason he’s the new main man, Lobo, in the DCU), and that helps a lot here. Drinking like a fish, running headfirst into conflict, and stubbornly resenting being cast aside as a half-brother make for an interesting buddy cop loose cannon. Dave Bautista pulls off the largely stoic, seasoned combatant SEAL with aplomb, and both excel in both the action roles and in embodying the evolving state of their complicated relationships. Morena Baccarin adds considerable charisma and power throughout as Jonny’s frustrated, no-nonsense, and smart banker paramour, Valentina.
As a whole, the narrative works well, centering on a Chinatown-esque tale where powerful figures attempt to achieve nefarious plans for personal enrichment: dark, twisty, and dangerous. The personal dynamic works, and the Hales end in a place that could branch into a great sequel. The twists work, there’s ample comedy without undercutting tension, and there are a few exemplary action set-pieces that were well-designed and coordinated and looked great on a big screen. Perhaps the best elements of the ‘action’ half of ‘action-comedy’ here are the melee moments, which are visceral, bloody, and well-executed. Bones break, villains and heroes take realistic damage, and while it’s no gore-fest like Terrifier, it’s also not sanitized.
From a narrative perspective, there are a few small issues. Some of the plot threads in this twisty tale stretch believability, such as the Hale family’s connections to what’s going on and who is behind it (combined with the why behind their father’s journey into harm’s way). A few interesting characters, such as Stephen Root‘s Detective Sergeant Karl Rennert, sure seem like they should be more heavily featured in the film, but somehow got lost in the edit. Similarly, a little more context on their father’s legacy as an investigator would be useful to the narrative. That said, for an action-comedy buddy cop flick, it’s a winner overall.
Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista Are Excellent as Mismatched Investigative Siblings
No two actors were born to play mismatched buddy cop (half)brothers better than Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista. They master very divergent vibes, melee and gun combat, and comedy chops alike, and the estranged brotherly vibes are immaculate. It’s a fun narrative, the action elements are well done and uncompromising, and the jokes work. Sure, the narrative could use a little shine in certain aspects, such as the conspiracy at the film’s heart and the background of their newly deceased, estranged father, but as a whole, it’s a stellar outing and a lot of fun, a blank check for a probable franchise.
The Wrecking Crew comes to Prime Video on January 28.
- Release Date
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January 28, 2026
- Director
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Ángel Manuel Soto
- Writers
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Jonathan Tropper
- Both Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista master their respective characters, with a stellar dynamic and solid action-comedy chops.
- The action is well-choreographed and executed, from tightly shot, quick melee to a stellar helicopter change.
- Great use is made of the sunny, unconventional setting, making for a unique feel that captures its surroundings.
- Certain details and sequence logic could be better developed in parts.
What are the release details for Prime Video’s new action film featuring Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa?
Prime Video’s New Action Film Features a Perfect Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa Duo
prime Video has delivered a knockout with its latest action offering, pairing the imposing physicality of Dave Bautista with the charismatic intensity of Jason Momoa. The film, currently untitled as of January 26, 2026, is already generating critically important buzz, and for good reason – the on-screen chemistry between these two action stars is palpable. This isn’t just a case of throwing big names together; it’s a carefully constructed dynamic that elevates the entire movie.
The Dynamic Duo: Bautista’s Grounded Strength & Momoa’s Untamed Energy
Both Bautista and Momoa have established themselves as forces in the action genre,but they bring distinctly different strengths to the table. Bautista, transitioning successfully from professional wrestling to acting, excels at portraying characters with a stoic, grounded presence. Think Guardians of the galaxy’s drax the destroyer – a powerful figure with a surprising vulnerability.
Momoa, on the other hand, embodies a more untamed, almost primal energy. His portrayal of Aquaman showcased a regal power tempered by a wild, unpredictable streak. This contrast is brilliantly exploited in the new Prime Video film. Early reports suggest Bautista plays a former special forces operative forced out of retirement, while Momoa embodies a rogue agent with a mysterious past. Their initial conflict, born from opposing methodologies, quickly evolves into a grudging respect and ultimately, a formidable partnership.
Action Sequences: Practical Effects & Visceral Combat
The film’s director,Lena Reyes (known for her work on edge of Tomorrow 2),has emphasized a commitment to practical effects and visceral combat. This is a welcome departure from the increasingly CGI-heavy landscape of modern action cinema.
* Hand-to-Hand Combat: expect brutal, realistic fight choreography that showcases both actors’ physical prowess. Bautista’s wrestling background lends itself to impactful grappling and close-quarters combat, while Momoa’s martial arts training is prominently featured.
* Vehicle Chases: The film boasts several high-octane vehicle chases through the urban landscapes of Prague, utilizing practical stunts and minimal green screen work.
* Weaponry: While firearms are present, the action leans heavily into improvised weaponry and close-combat techniques, adding a layer of grit and realism.
Reyes has stated in recent interviews that she wanted the audience to feel the impact of every punch and collision, and early screenings confirm she’s succeeded.
Beyond the Action: A Surprisingly Nuanced Narrative
While the action is undoubtedly a major draw, the film isn’t simply a mindless spectacle. The narrative delves into themes of redemption, loyalty, and the moral ambiguities of operating in the shadows. Bautista’s character grapples with the consequences of his past actions, seeking a path to atonement. Momoa’s character,initially presented as a reckless wildcard,reveals a hidden depth and a strong sense of justice.
The supporting cast, featuring rising star Anya Sharma as a tech specialist and veteran actor Ben Miller as a shadowy government operative, further enriches the story. The script, penned by the acclaimed duo of Sarah Chen and David Ito, avoids tired tropes and delivers a surprisingly nuanced and emotionally resonant experience.
The Rise of the Action Buddy Cop Formula – Revisited
This pairing taps into a classic action trope – the buddy cop dynamic – but with a modern twist. Instead of law enforcement,Bautista and Momoa are operating outside the system,bound by circumstance rather than official duty. This allows for greater freedom in terms of narrative and action set pieces.
Similar accomplished pairings in recent years include:
- Ryan reynolds & Samuel L. Jackson in The Hitman’s Bodyguard: Showcasing comedic timing alongside intense action.
- Dwayne Johnson & Kevin Hart in central Intelligence: A blend of physical comedy and espionage.
- Jason Statham & Jennifer Lopez in Shotgun Wedding: A more romantic-comedy leaning action film.
However, the Bautista/Momoa dynamic feels distinct, leaning more towards a gritty, realistic portrayal of two damaged individuals finding common ground.
Production details & Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Filming took place primarily in Prague and Budapest over a six-month period, concluding in late 2025. The production team faced several challenges, including navigating complex logistical hurdles and adhering to strict COVID-19 protocols. However, Reyes praised the dedication and professionalism of the cast and crew, noting that their collaborative spirit was instrumental in overcoming these obstacles.
A notably engaging anecdote emerged during filming of a complex stunt sequence involving a motorcycle chase through Prague’s Old Town Square. Bautista reportedly improvised a move that saved Momoa from a potential injury, demonstrating the genuine camaraderie between the two actors. This incident quickly became a talking point on set and further solidified their on-screen chemistry.
Streaming availability & future Prospects
Prime Video’s New Action Film is scheduled for release on January 26, 2026, at 14:50:05 PST, exclusively on the Prime Video platform. Subscribers will have access to the film in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Atmos sound.
The success of this film is likely to pave the way for future collaborations between Bautista and Momoa. Both actors have expressed interest in revisiting their characters and exploring new storylines. Furthermore, the film’s positive reception could inspire Prime Video to invest further in high-quality action content, solidifying its position as a major player in the streaming landscape.
