Ride or Die is a spirited, if uneven, romp that finds its rhythm in the chemistry of its leads
Ride or Die (2026): Worthwhile if you prefer character chemistry to plot consistency This show has all the tropes action adventure shows have, but is best piloted by its stars, so you can take a pass on this one if you need to keep your narrative continuity. The plot is all about a secret assassin life, but this show is worth watching for the snappy banter between Hannah Waddingham and Octavia Spencer. The stories may not be original, but these two will elevate the show.
The weight of a bulletproof bond
The series really thrives when it can utilize the genuine friendship between Judith and Debbie to anchor the frantic nature of the globe-trotting storylines. Waddingham and her intensity as a lethal forensic accountant, balanced by Spencer’s grounding, relatable performance, manages to keep this overwhelming premise tied together. The balance creates a compelling emotional center that holds even against the zanier plots. The friendship adds dimension and entertaining story depth that truly is the best part of the show.
The show can always improve on the more plot-centered approaches to the espionage side of the storylines. The conspiracy with Debbie’s husband attempts to establish grounded obstacles the leads have to work against, but serves more purpose as an obligation than a compelling element to engage with and watch develop. The action scenes are energized throughout, but there are moments where the script clearly struggles and works against the stakes of the globe-spanning plots the series excels at the most, and wants to integrate into the comedic elements that ground the series.
A stylistic unevenness in the hunt
The show’s style includes lots of blended, pastel colors and gives off a relaxed, sunny vibe that matches the story. The editing and cutting make the pacing fast and enthusiastic. This show refuses to get bogged down in grittiness the genre demands and instead prioritizes fun. The editing gives a great sense of scale, but it cuts out before the drama begins to build. This is an enjoyable show over all but cuts a lot out to be fast-paced.
The series, if anything, does break the mold by slowing down the narrative in the middle episodes. While the other episodes allow the engaging dialogue to draw the viewer in, the middle episodes are like a wall that slows the progression of the show to a halt. The excellent secondary cast, including the deadpan Bill Nighy, provides a lot of layers to the show. If you want a show that stays grounded, this is not for you, but if you want an awesome character-centric story, this show is for you.
Who should commit to the ride
This is a show people who like character-based comedy with action will enjoy. Fans of the cast will want to watch it. Waddingham and Spencer elevate the series by being great in their roles. This is the kind of watch that you can sit down and power through on a lazy weekend. Entertainment value comes first over everything else. If you want everything to make sense, or if you want to see realistic spy movies, then go somewhere else. The plot is sort of held together by these ridiculous coincidences. There’s no real suspense. It’s a show that loses a lot of people with how it uses plot devices. The trip through Europe will feel more like a drag, instead of a vacation.
