Paramount Pictures is set to release the much-anticipated sequel to the beloved “Rush Hour” franchise, with renowned director Brett Ratner at the helm. The studio is distributing the film on behalf of Warner Bros., marking a significant collaboration amid reports that Paramount is in bidding discussions to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. This partnership represents a notable moment since David Ellison took control of Paramount, and it follows a competitive bidding phase that saw other companies, including Netflix and Comcast, exploring opportunities with Warner Bros.
Interestingly, several studios previously opted not to pursue the latest “Rush Hour” film, including New Line Cinema, the studio originally behind the franchise that helped propel Ratner’s career through the original trilogy, which grossed an impressive $850 million globally. The original “Rush Hour” debuted in 1998, followed by sequels in 2001 and 2007, and fans can reportedly look forward to the return of iconic duo Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker for this fourth installment.
Brett Ratner, although facing controversy surrounding allegations of sexual misconduct in 2017, has since continued his work in the industry. The matter was settled in 2018. Recently, Ratner directed a documentary about First Lady Melania Trump, slated for release on January 30, further indicating his ongoing presence in cinematic projects.
Furthermore, it was revealed that Donald Trump himself urged the Ellison family to revive the “Rush Hour” franchise, giving the project an extra layer of intrigue. In August 2024, reports indicated that “Rush Hour 4” with Ratner attached was being pitched, with production rights retained by Tarak Ben Ammar, who partnered with original producer Arthur Sarkissian in this venture.
The revival of “Rush Hour” comes during a time when audiences are eager for comedic films, as evidenced by the success of the recent “Bad Boys” installments. The 2020 film “Bad Boys for Life” and the forthcoming “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” demonstrated that there remains a strong appetite for comedy in theaters. This renewed enthusiasm for comedy films should bode well for “Rush Hour 4,” providing hope that the series can reclaim its place in the hearts of fans and draw significant box office returns once again.