This action thriller sequel is the weakest of the cop sagas, let down by its tiresomely inconsistent script about South African drug runners and their crooked accountant. Director Richard Donner accents humour rather than explosive action and the result is an oddly toned, cartoon-like adventure with the comedy elements making the nasty violence seem even more gratuitous. That said, Mel Gibson and Danny Glover's accomplished rapport continues to delight, and Joe Pesci is very entertaining as the motormouthed accountant.

Riggs and Murtaugh are on the trail of South African diplomats using their immunity to engage in criminal activities.