Guide Note

Lethal Weapon is a 1987 American action film directed by Richard Donner. The success of the film led to the production of three sequels through 1998.

Fast Facts

1. Director: Richard Donner
2. Producers: Richard Donner, Joel Silver
3. Starring: Mel Gibson, Danny Glover, Gary Busey
4. Released: March 6, 1987
5. Run time: 110 min
6. Budget: 15 million USD
7. Gross: 120 million USD
8. MPAA rating: R
9. Followed by: Lethal Weapon 2 in 1989

Devastated by the death of his wife, Sergeant Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) becomes "crazy" and suicidal, and is partnered with almost-retired Sergeant Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) to bust a heroin-smuggling operation.

After a rocky start, the two eventually bond after Riggs saves Murtaugh's life. Murtaugh introduces Riggs to his family, and by the end of the film, Riggs regains his desire to keep living.

Perhaps the most memorable scene of the film is the climactic combat fight between Riggs and drug ring "enforcer" Mr. Joshua (Gary Busey). The mix of martial arts and fast cuts made it one of the most memorable fight scenes of its time

Considered a standard when it comes to "buddy cop" films, Lethal Weapon opened to positive critical reviews. Roger Ebert wrote that it "thrilled" him from start to finish, and Variety praised its "unrelenting energy."

Lethal Weapon grossed $120 million worldwide, which led to the production of three more sequels through 1998.