Stuber

Vic Manning, a driven LAPD detective fresh off eye surgery, is itching to close a big case when a routine, high stakes assignment collides with an unlikely ally. He recruits Stu Prasad, a fast talking Uber driver who never shirks a dare, to drive him through a city full of danger and distractions. Manning believes their odd couple setup will help him tail a dangerous heroin dealer without drawing too much attention, but the plan quickly spirals into a day of improvised maneuvers, mistaken identities, and near misses. As stakeouts turn into chaos, the pair argues, jokes, and learns to trust each other, even when the city seems ready to swallow them. The city will test their limits and humor.

Directed by Michael Dowse, Stuber blends Bautista's deadpan intensity with Nanjiani's quick talking energy. It stems from an original concept by Tripper Clancy and aims for a kinetic, street level vibe that unfolds across practical Los Angeles settings and early night shoots.

Worldwide gross sits around 32.4 million against a 16 million budget, placing it in the modest to midrange tier for a 2019 genre release. The receipts reflect word of mouth rather than blockbuster draw, with international markets contributing a share.

While not a defining cultural moment, Stuber tightened the familiar buddy cop dynamic with Bautista's imposing presence and Nanjiani's quick wit. The film delivered gunplay setpieces and brisk one liners that kept the tempo lively, contributing to late 2010s action comedies built around unlikely partnerships and street level humor everywhere.

Critics generally praised the pairing while noting a thin plot and routine humor. The film toys with duty versus spontaneity and the bond that forms when two different people must rely on each other. The chemistry lands with audiences, and the finale blends action and banter in a pleasing arc.