Mikes Film Talk

The 2025 action comedy The Pickup is about stealing big money and it is very funny. I chuckled, giggled and laughed throughout the whole film. Director Tim Story puts this one on overdrive and it is a fun time had by all. Almost non-stop action and both Davidson and Murphy bounce off each other very well.

The Pickup Story

A rookie driver tells tales out of school and turns a routine run into a nightmare. His old school partner in the armored truck teaches the new guy how to fight off thieves on the run.

The Cast

Eddie Murphy is Russell Pierce.

Pete Davidson is Travis Stolly.

Keke Palmer is Zoe.

Jack Kesy is Banner.

Ismael Cruz Cordova is Miguel.

Andrew Dice Clay is Clark.

Kudos to Nelson Bonilla in his cameo as the Casino Guard. Bonilla, who was in Ozark shines here. #nosmallparts

Let’s Talk

Writers Kevin Burrows and Matt Mider throw a bit of everything into the screenplay. Director Tim Story runs with it and makes this all work. There a few allusions to Murphy’s Axel F days. The chase scene where Banner is trying to burn his way into the truck? Beverly Hills Cop number one. Axel , hanging off the back of the lorry full of cigarettes.

There are some musical references as well. What works though is the action and the laughs just keep coming.

The fight sequences, the stunts and the gags are convincing. Davidson does a more than adequate job as the sidekick in love here. Murphy does a great riff on being an older hero. Keke Palmer makes me fall in love with her everytime she plays another character. As they used to say back in the day, “she got game,” for days.

I think the entire film works, the music, the plot and the comedy/action. The Pickup allows each actor to shine and Cordova has become a new favorite.

The Pickup Verdict

This film shows that Murphy’s success with Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is no fluke. He is delivering and his performance is on par with his better films. The Pickup is 5 star fun. Everything works here. Somewhat amazingly, this latest effort has received a pretty lukewarm reception. It is streaming on Prime right now, check it out and see what you think.

The Trailer