“The Pickup” is a 2025 action-comedy film that brings together comedy legend Eddie Murphy and the quirky humor of Pete Davidson. With expectations sky-high due to its unusual casting and bold premise, the film tries to blend fast-paced action, slapstick humor, and absurd plot twists. But does it deliver on its promise? Or does it get lost in its own chaotic energy?
Let’s take a closer look at the film’s performance, plot, and execution in this full review.
Plot Summary
“The Pickup” revolves around a seemingly simple act: picking someone up. But as the title cleverly suggests, the term “pickup” takes on multiple meanings throughout the movie—ranging from vehicles, heists, personal relationships, and even life-changing opportunities.
Eddie Murphy plays Ray, a retired getaway driver who’s trying to live a low-profile life in the suburbs. Enter Pete Davidson as Tommy, an eccentric and wildly unpredictable delivery driver with a knack for getting into trouble. When Tommy mistakenly picks up a mysterious package meant for an underground crime boss, the two are thrown together in a wild, chaotic road trip filled with mobsters, government agents, and plenty of questionable choices.
As their paths collide, what unfolds is a series of misadventures, elaborate stunts, and comic misunderstandings that highlight both the chemistry and clash between Murphy’s cool, calculated demeanor and Pete Davidson’s unpredictable, off-the-wall energy.
Cast and Performances
One of the biggest draws of “The Pickup” is its star-studded cast. Let’s break down the performances:
Eddie Murphy as Ray
Murphy brings his signature swagger to the role of a once-feared wheelman. His character is gruff, sarcastic, and always one step ahead—at least in theory. Murphy’s timing and delivery are on point, especially in the quieter, character-driven moments. However, the script sometimes fails to give him the layered material that could’ve made Ray a more compelling figure.
Pete Davidson as Tommy
Davidson plays a character that feels like an exaggerated version of himself—awkward, witty, impulsive, and strangely endearing. While his style of humor may not appeal to everyone, his presence injects unpredictability into the film, which works well for the character’s arc. That said, Davidson’s improvisational energy sometimes clashes with the more structured scenes.
Supporting Cast
The supporting characters, including a menacing crime boss, an undercover FBI agent, and a quirky hacker sidekick, are all played competently. However, many feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully fleshed-out characters.
Direction and Tone
Directed by Jake Kasdan, known for his work on the modern “Jumanji” films, “The Pickup” tries to balance action and absurdist comedy. But that balance isn’t always smooth. The movie switches tones frequently—from heartfelt buddy moments to loud, fast-paced chase sequences to slapstick misfires—which can feel jarring.
While there are moments that shine, especially the chase scenes and witty banter, other parts feel forced or formulaic. The pacing suffers in the second act, and some plot points are glossed over or forgotten entirely.
Visuals and Action Sequences
Visually, “The Pickup” is polished and slick. The action sequences—particularly the ones involving high-speed driving, crashes, and clever evasions—are well choreographed and shot. Murphy’s background as a stunt driver is given some great on-screen moments, and Davidson’s unpredictability adds a layer of chaos to the action.
The film leans heavily on CGI for explosions and special effects, but it’s used sparingly enough that it doesn’t overwhelm the scenes. Practical stunts and set pieces also contribute to the gritty realism of the car chases and gunfights.
Comedy: Hit or Miss?
Comedy is subjective, and in “The Pickup,” it often hits hard… or misses entirely. The humor ranges from smart, quick-witted exchanges to bizarre non-sequiturs and cringe-inducing jokes. Some of the funniest scenes come from Murphy and Davidson’s opposing energies—one grounded, the other chaotic.
However, the film leans too often into juvenile humor and predictable punchlines, especially in the middle section. While some viewers might appreciate the absurdity, others could find it tiring or inconsistent.
Themes and Subtext
Though primarily an action-comedy, “The Pickup” does try to touch on a few deeper themes:
- Second chances – Ray is a man trying to leave behind a criminal past, while Tommy is just figuring out what to do with his life.
- Unlikely friendship – The central relationship forms the emotional core of the movie.
- Consequences of choices – Many of the situations stem from impulsive or morally grey decisions, explored with varying success.
These themes are introduced early but often get lost amid the noise and jokes. The film could have benefited from grounding these ideas more solidly.
Table: Quick Breakdown of “The Pickup”
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action Comedy |
| Main Cast | Eddie Murphy, Pete Davidson |
| Director | Jake Kasdan |
| Runtime | 1 hr 48 mins |
| Rating | PG-13 |
| Strengths | Star power, dynamic action scenes, comedic chemistry |
| Weaknesses | Uneven tone, inconsistent humor, underdeveloped characters |
| Best Scene | A high-speed escape through a crowded farmer’s market |
| Worst Scene | A prolonged bathroom gag that stalls the momentum |
| Audience | Fans of buddy comedies, casual action movie lovers |
Box Office and Reception
Early box office reports suggest that “The Pickup” had a modest opening, bolstered largely by the star power of its leads. Audience reactions have been mixed, with some praising the comedic timing and others criticizing the film’s uneven tone.
Critics note that while the film has potential, it doesn’t fully utilize its cast or premise. Many agree that the movie feels like a missed opportunity to revive the classic buddy-comedy genre with a modern twist.
Comparison to Similar Films
To better understand where “The Pickup” lands, let’s compare it with other buddy-action comedies:
| Film | Similarities | Why “The Pickup” Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Central Intelligence | Odd-couple dynamic, action + comedy | “The Pickup” is more chaotic and less structured |
| Ride Along | Police-themed comedy, high-energy duo | “The Pickup” has more absurd, less grounded humor |
| The Nice Guys | 70s backdrop, mismatched leads | “The Pickup” is more modern and slapstick |
While “The Pickup” borrows familiar elements, it lacks the focused writing and character depth that elevate its counterparts.
Final Verdict
“The Pickup” is a mixed bag. It boasts exciting car chases, fast-paced action, and the novelty of Eddie Murphy and Pete Davidson sharing the screen. But the movie often stumbles under the weight of its own ambition, swinging between action, comedy, and sentimentality without fully committing to any.
Fans of Murphy’s classic roles may find flashes of brilliance here, while Davidson followers will appreciate his offbeat humor. However, the film may not resonate with viewers looking for a tight plot or consistent tone.
Should You Watch It?
If you enjoy over-the-top action comedies and are a fan of either Murphy or Davidson, “The Pickup” might be worth a casual watch. But if you’re looking for a more cohesive story or a refined blend of action and comedy, this ride may feel more like a detour than a destination.
