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Review: Renegades (1989)
Genre: Action / Crime / Thriller
Renegades, directed by Jack Sholder, is a quintessential late ’80s action film that blends crime, buddy dynamics, and high-stakes thrills. While the plot may follow familiar territory, the film manages to create a gritty, fast-paced ride that keeps audiences engaged with its raw energy and standout performances from its leads.
The story centers around two main characters: a rebellious undercover cop, Nick (Charlie Sheen), and a Native American ex-cop, Franklin (Lou Diamond Phillips), who team up to take down a corrupt arms dealer. When a robbery goes wrong, they inadvertently uncover a dangerous criminal syndicate, leading them to cross paths in a way that forces them to work together despite their differences. As the tension escalates, Nick and Franklin must confront not only the criminals but also their own pasts and moral dilemmas.
Charlie Sheen, fresh off his success in Platoon and Wall Street, plays the classic loose-cannon cop, delivering the right blend of charisma and reckless charm. Lou Diamond Phillips, playing the more grounded Franklin, offers a solid counterbalance to Sheen’s high-energy performance. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, adding depth to what could have otherwise been a straightforward action flick.
The action scenes in Renegades are intense and well-choreographed, showcasing a mix of shootouts, car chases, and hand-to-hand combat that provide the thrills expected from an action-packed 80s film. Though the film’s premise isn’t groundbreaking, it succeeds by leaning into its formulaic structure with enthusiasm and a sense of fun.
While Renegades may not go down as a classic in the genre, it offers everything fans of ’80s action could want—adrenaline-pumping action, an unlikely duo, and just the right amount of melodrama. It’s a fun, if flawed, entry that delivers exactly what it promises.
What do you think of the dynamic between Nick and Franklin? Let us know your thoughts below!
