The Pickup premieres on 6 August 2025 on Prime Video. It’s an English-language action-comedy with a Hindi dubbed option, directed by Tim Story, and written by Kevin Burrows and Matt Mider. The film stars a lively ensemble including Eddie Murphy, Keke Palmer, Pete Davidson, Eva Longoria, Jack Kesy, Marshawn Lynch, and more. Running at 1 hour and 34 minutes, it packs heist thrills and laughs into a brisk, explosive package.
I watched this movie today in the morning 9 to 12 show, and our team rates it a strong 4.5 out of 5 at Holly Review. Want more? Explore our other reviews like The Fantastic Four: First Steps or Leanne Web Series.
Review
The Pickup follows two very different armored truck drivers—Russell (Eddie Murphy), a weary veteran, and Travis (Pete Davidson), a fast-talking rookie—as they become unwilling participants in a daring heist led by the clever criminal mastermind Zoe (Keke Palmer) .
Expect a classic mismatched-buddies formula that blends action and humor in a high-stakes day gone completely sideways. The film delivers fast pace, witty banter, unexpected cameos, and wild chaos—an early 2000s action-comedy vibe remade for modern streaming .
Story
On its surface, The Pickup is a simple heist comedy. Russell and Travis, doing a routine cash pickup shift, are ambushed by Zoe’s gang. What follows is a whirlwind day of tension, humor, and survival. The film doesn’t delve deep—it’s about characters reacting, running, and hopefully making it out alive, all while trading jokes and one-liners.
Cast
- Eddie Murphy as Russell Pierce – A seasoned driver with a weary charm
- Pete Davidson as Travis Stolly – The eager, naive rookie
- Keke Palmer as Zoe – The smart and unpredictable mastermind
- Eva Longoria as Natalie Pierce – Russell’s wife
- Andrew Dice Clay as Clark – Their unpleasant boss
- Marshawn Lynch as "Chop Shop" – The tough mechanic
- Roman Reigns as an MMA fighter – A surprise, bold cameo
- Jack Kesy, Ismael Cruz Córdova, and others as part of the criminal crew—including betrayals, laughs, and high emotions .
Acting
Eddie Murphy remains the best part of the movie. Even with more restrained dialogue, his comedic presence shines—it’s hard to make a straight man role look this magnetic . Pete Davidson brings his offbeat energy, and Pascal-like contrast with Murphy’s grounded persona. The chemistry is electric, especially in their “uncles riffing” dynamic . Keke Palmer stands out with sharp wit and gritty intensity. Supporting players like Longoria, Lynch, and Reigns add charm and surprise.
Direction
Tim Story brings visual flair and slick pacing to The Pickup. Scenes move fluidly, humor lands often, and the chaotic sequences feel deliberate and punchy. It’s not heavy storytelling—it’s made for speed, laughs, and action. It sometimes feels a bit cinematic for streaming, and that energy works well.
Critical Response
Critics have been harsh. Many call the film forgettable, citing squashed potential and lazy writing . Yet others highlight Murphy’s star power, noting that few actors could elevate such material . Rotten Tomatoes sits at just 33%, and Metacritic around 42/100—reflecting mixed or average reviews . Still, some outlets praise it as the comedic pick of the summer for casual viewing .
Plus Points
- Eddie Murphy’s magnetic performance
- Fast-paced, high-energy action-comedy
- Great chemistry, especially between Murphy and Davidson
- Bold and diverse supporting cast
- Plenty of fun cameos (Marshawn Lynch, Roman Reigns)
Minus Points
- Thin storyline and forgettable villains
- Predictable heist structure
- Jokes feel outdated or dull at times
- Critics say it squanders talent and potential
Technical Department
Cinematography by Larry Blanford gives a slick, cinematic look. Editing keeps the pace high, though tension is light. The production ties in flashy visuals with mechanic scenes, cash trucks, and downtown chaos. Music by Christopher Lennertz supports the action, but nothing in the score feels iconic—it’s more functional.
Music Review
While The Pickup isn’t a musical, its background score is sturdy and balanced. It builds suspense and keeps energy alive, but you won’t leave humming a highlight track. It’s supportive, subtle, and fits the tone rather than defines it.
Verdict
The Pickup isn’t reinventing the genre—but if you want to turn off your brain and be entertained for 94 minutes, it works. Eddie Murphy and Pete Davidson bring charm and mismatched fun. The story is familiar, but the chaos, cameos, and comedy make it enjoyable for fans of easy action-comedy.
At Holly Review, we’re giving it 4. out of 5 for sheer entertainment value and star power.
Should You Watch The Pickup?
Yes, if you want a light, fun, and action-packed comedy to stream this weekend. It’s not deep, and critics won’t celebrate it—but it’s a fun ride if you enjoy buddy comedies with energy and big names.
Prefer something real or emotional instead? Try our review of My Oxford Year or Dhadak 2 for stories that aim deeper.