A criminal, Reggie Hammond (Eddie Murphy) is sprung out of jail by a no-nonsense, San Francisco homicide cop, Jack Cates (Nick Nolte) for two days, in order to catch two escaped convicts, Ganz (James Remar) and Billy Bear (Sonny Landhamwith) who have vicious demeanors, bad attitudes, and naturally are up to no good. They gain their freedom by murdering a prison guard, and then continue their killing spree that includes two policemen friends of Jack's. These two dregs of society continue to cause havoc as they try to find something of Reggie's that is vitally important to their future in crime.

Reggie Hammond used to be a member of Ganz's gang, and his help is vital to Jack Cates' investigation, much to the annoyance of Jack.

Director Walter Hill, experienced in writing and directing action flicks, does a superb job giving the audience some exceptional, tight action sequences around this dynamic team, and dastardly villains, as well as directing this talented cast.

The crackling script was written by Roger Spottiswoode, Larry Gross, and Walter Hill. Great, great, great. While having the tendency to have a violently grim tone, the politically incorrect humorous banter, (considered profane at times) and situations interjected throughout the film lightens up the story, giving it some balance.

Nick Nolte is well cast as a slightly overweight, seemingly hung over Homicide detective. This cranky, but charming cop, seems at first more interested in hitting Murphy than talking to him, is most of the time at odds with this cocky character, but must put up with him, and find a way to work with him, in his dedication in doing the job.

Eddie Murphy, in his big screen debut, is loads of fun as a wisecracking, charming, fast-talking criminal; a real smooth operator, quick on his feet in tense situations. A scene where he bluffs a bar full of hostile white rednecks is a delight. "Not a very popular place with the brothers!"

The chemistry is great between Nolte and Murphy - the two mismatched, oil and water "buddies", and makes the premise that the screenplay is based on work quite successfully.

My favorite scene involves a climactic showdown between Nolte and the main bad guy. In an alley, at night, with fog swirling and neon glowing, the good guy and bad guy have a classic, almost mythic confrontation.

Jack Cates Quote:"We ain't partners, we ain't brothers, and we ain't friends!!"