Bulletproof (1996) – Bullets, Betrayal, and Bromance
Bulletproof is a wild, fast-paced action-comedy that blends gunfights with goofy banter and unlikely friendship. Directed by Ernest Dickerson and released in 1996, the film stars Damon Wayans and Adam Sandler in a high-octane, odd-couple pairing that delivers both explosive action and unexpected heart.
The story centers on two best friends on opposite sides of the law. Rock Keats (Damon Wayans) is an undercover cop who’s been working deep within a drug ring. His assignment: bring down a ruthless drug kingpin named Colton (James Caan). But to do that, Keats has to betray his friend Archie Moses (Adam Sandler) — a small-time thief unknowingly helping run drugs for Colton’s empire.
When Keats' cover is blown and Moses realizes his best buddy is actually a cop, things fall apart fast. A shootout leaves Keats injured and Moses on the run. Months later, the two are forced back together when Keats must escort Moses across the country to testify against their former boss. What follows is a road trip from hell — filled with car chases, gunfire, angry gangsters, and constant bickering.
What gives Bulletproof its charm is the chemistry between Wayans and Sandler. Their back-and-forth is a mix of sharp jabs, genuine emotion, and ridiculous antics. While the plot hits familiar buddy-cop beats, the duo’s timing and energy make it feel fresh. Wayans plays the straight man with swagger, while Sandler leans into his goofy, unpredictable persona.
The action scenes are loud and exaggerated — think high-speed pursuits, crashes, and shootouts that are more fun than realistic. But under the chaos is a story about betrayal, loyalty, and the strange bond that sometimes survives even the worst betrayals.
Though Bulletproof wasn’t a critical darling upon release, it’s developed a bit of a cult following, especially among fans of '90s action-comedies. It’s the kind of film that knows exactly what it is — silly, fast, and unapologetically loud.
If you're looking for serious police drama, look elsewhere. But if you're in the mood for over-the-top action, ridiculous dialogue, and two actors who seem like they're genuinely having fun, Bulletproof still hits the mark — even if it misses a few along the way.
