While one might view the box office numbers for “Ride Along” and “Ride Along 2” and see a franchise on the decline (the first film earned $154 million worldwide, the second $124 million worldwide), Universal still believes in Kevin Hart and Ice Cube. Certainly, the former is one of the biggest comedy stars on the planet, and his sweet and sour chemistry with the rapper is palpable. And while it’s a shame that the material never matches the potential they could bring on screen (frankly, the remotes Hart and Cube have done on “Conan” are far funnier than any of their big screen outings), the studio and the duo are gonna give it another shot.
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Variety reveals that “Ride Along 3” is in development. Screenwriters Phil Hay and Matt Manfredi, and director Tim Story, who all worked together on the first two movies, have rehired again for the third, though it’s too early to talk about plot details. While many will say that no is asking for a third installment, I’m guessing the “Ride Along” movies do well on cable on whatnot, which makes it appealing for Universal to chase a third entry. And/or they’re banking on the rising star status of Kevin Hart.
Speaking of which, Hart’s latest effort, the theatrical standup special “Kevin Hart: What Now?” opens this weekend.