Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz Reunite in Back in Action—But Is It Worth the Comeback? [REVIEW]

Netflix’s Back in Action brings Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz back together for an action-comedy that should have been a slam dunk. The nostalgia is strong, the cast is stacked, and the concept—a retired spy couple forced back into the game—has plenty of potential. But while their chemistry shines, the film itself is weighed down by formulaic storytelling, a diluted tone, and an over-reliance on genre clichés.

The biggest win here is seeing Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz share the screen again. Their chemistry is effortless, and they remind us why they were such reliable stars in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. Add Glenn Close to the mix as Diaz’s ex-MI6 mother, and you’ve got a trio that deserves a better movie.

Directed by Seth Gordon (Horrible Bosses), Back in Action leans into its throwback sensibilities, evoking the vibe of True Lies and Mr. & Mrs. Smith while adding a family-oriented twist. The film’s action sequences are well-executed, featuring clever hand-to-hand combat and chase scenes that, at their best, make the film a breezy, if forgettable, watch.

The story opens with CIA operatives Matt (Foxx) and Emily (Diaz) in the midst of a mission that leads to them faking their deaths and disappearing into suburban life. Years later, when their cover is blown, they’re forced back into the spy world, dragging their kids along for the ride. The resulting chaos delivers some fun moments, particularly when their children, Alice and Leo, realize their “boring” parents are actually highly trained operatives.

Glenn Close, as Emily’s formidable mother, steals scenes with her deadpan humor and commanding presence. Meanwhile, Andrew Scott and Kyle Chandler add some class to the supporting cast, though their roles feel underutilized.

Despite having all the right ingredients—charming leads, action-packed sequences, and a solid premise—the film struggles with its identity. Back in Action doesn’t fully commit to being either a sharp, adult spy flick or a high-energy family adventure. The PG-13 rating waters down the action and comedy, leaving it stuck in a middle ground that doesn’t fully satisfy any audience.

The plot itself is riddled with predictability. A long-lost “master key” that can control power grids? Check. A bad guy who barely registers as a real threat? Check. A storyline that relies on tired spy tropes without adding anything fresh? Double check. The film’s biggest crime isn’t just that it’s familiar—it’s that it never tries to subvert expectations.

Back in Action isn’t a total misfire, but it’s far from a home run. The chemistry between Foxx and Diaz keeps things afloat, and there are moments of fun scattered throughout. However, its by-the-numbers plot and lack of commitment to a clear tone prevent it from being anything more than a passable, background-watch action comedy.

If you’re a die-hard Jamie Foxx or Cameron Diaz fan, it’s worth a look just to see them back on screen and together. But for anyone hoping for something fresh, Back in Action is too safe, too familiar, and ultimately, too forgettable.