Ride Along (2014)

Is this finally Kevin Hart's moment? The high-pitched, high-strung comedian with the manic motormouth delivery has been killing it as a stand-up for a while now, but despite a long résumé of TV and film roles, he still hasn't found that elusive crossover hit. His new comedy, Ride Along, could do the trick, but it might've helped if it were a smarter, funnier movie. Hart plays an Atlanta security guard about to propose to his girlfriend (Tika Sumpter). Before he does, though, he needs the blessing of her intimidating cop brother (Ice Cube), who ropes him into being his patrol partner for a day to prove his worthiness. Ride Along is a generic slapdash odd-couple flick — the fast-talking pip-squeak vs. the fearsome pit bull. Still, Hart's exasperated dervish shtick has moments of real live-wire anarchy, including one priceless gag at a firing range. Will it be enough to make Hart a household name? Maybe. But both he and his fans deserve better. C+