After years of speculation, the long-anticipated fourth installment of the Rush Hour franchise is reportedly in the works. The buddy cop series, which has grossed over $850 million worldwide, is set to bring back its beloved leads, Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker, in an all-new adventure.

A Brief History of Rush Hour

The original Rush Hour, released in 1998, introduced audiences to the unlikely duo of Detective James Carter (Chris Tucker) and Inspector Lee (Jackie Chan). The film’s success spawned two sequels, Rush Hour 2 (2001) and Rush Hour 3 (2007), each building on the chemistry and camaraderie between the two leads.

The Road to Rush Hour 4

Despite the success of the trilogy, the road to Rush Hour 4 has been fraught with delays and setbacks. In 2017, Chan expressed interest in revisiting the franchise but stated that he would only do so if the script was ‘incredible.’ Tucker echoed Chan’s sentiments, saying he would be open to a fourth film if it felt ‘right.’

Fast forward to 2021, and it appears that the stars have finally aligned. According to reports, Rush Hour 4 is currently in pre-production, with Chan and Tucker set to reprise their roles as Lee and Carter.

What to Expect from Rush Hour 4

Details about the plot of Rush Hour 4 are scarce, but fans can expect the same blend of action, comedy, and buddy cop charm that made the original trilogy so beloved. Given the advancements in technology and filmmaking since the last installment, audiences can look forward to more sophisticated action sequences and potentially new characters.

One thing is certain: the return of Chan and Tucker will undoubtedly bring back the magic that made Rush Hour a household name. Their on-screen chemistry and comedic timing have been praised by critics and audiences alike, making them one of the most iconic duos in cinematic history.

The Future of the Rush Hour Franchise

While Rush Hour 4 is still in its infancy, fans are already speculating about the potential for future installments. With Chan and Tucker both in their 60s, it’s unclear how many more adventures they’ll embark on as Lee and Carter. However, the success of other aging action stars like Liam Neeson and Arnold Schwarzenegger suggests that there’s still a market for older action heroes.

Moreover, the Rush Hour franchise has always been about more than just its leads. The series has consistently featured a diverse cast of characters, from the villainous Juntao (Julian Sangster) in the first film to the charming Isabella Molina (Roselyn Sánchez) in Rush Hour 2. This built-in potential for character development and new storylines could ensure the longevity of the franchise even after Chan and Tucker hang up their badges.

Conclusion

Rush Hour 4 promises to be an exciting new chapter in the beloved buddy cop series. With Chan and Tucker back at the helm, fans can expect the same mix of humor, action, and heart that made the original trilogy a hit. As more details emerge about the film’s plot and production, one thing is clear: the Rush Hour franchise is far from over.

For more information on the Rush Hour series and its upcoming installment, visit CBR.