Alan Ritchson is no stranger to dominating Prime Video as the action hero Jack Reacher, but his latest project has once again secured him the top spot on the streamer. Despite some truly disappointing reviews from critics and audiences alike, subscribers can’t get enough of Ritchson’s latest action effort, which teams him up with one of the most recognizable comedic actors of his generation.
Playdate has been at the number one spot on Prime Video’s streaming charts since its debut on November 12. The film stars Ritchson and Kevin James (Grown Ups, The King of Queens) as a pair of dads who form an unlikely bond when their suburban life is turned upside down by a group of mercenaries. The dynamic duo is joined by Sarah Chalke, Alan Tudyk, Benjamin Pajak, Banks Pierce, Hiro Kanagawa, Stephen Root, and Isla Fisher. The action comedy was directed by Luke Greenfield (Half Brothers, Let’s Be Cops), based on a script by Neil Goldman (Shrinking).
Although it has an exciting leading duo and playful premise, the streaming film failed to impress critics, garnering some of the worst reviews in recent memory for Ritchson’s filmography. As of this writing, Playdate has a 17% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 23 reviews. Audiences were far more accepting of the action comedy, though, with user ratings amounting to a 60% on the Popcornmeter. Suffice it to say, there are still plenty of people finding enjoyment in the family-friendly film, especially considering its success on streaming this far. Read the official synopsis:
When recently unemployed accountant Brian (Kevin James) agrees to a playdate with charismatic stay-at-home dad Jeff (Alan Ritchson) and their sons, he expects an easy afternoon of small talk and football tossing. Instead, he’s thrust into a chaotic scramble to stay alive as they are pursued by a ruthless team of mercenaries. Brian stumbles through one ridiculous obstacle after another, his zero tactical skills a stark contrast to Jeff’s oddly prepared demeanor. Director Luke Greenfield (Let’s Be Cops, The Girl Next Door) hilariously collides suburban dad life with high-stakes thrills, transforming an ordinary afternoon into an absurd action-packed adventure where minivan mayhem meets professional hitmen.
Is a ‘Playdate’ Sequel in the Works?
As of this writing, Amazon has not announced if Playdate will get a sequel. However, judging by its streaming success and recent comments made by the director, there seems to be a chance that a follow-up will happen sooner rather than later. During a recent interview, Playdate director Luke Greenfield teased that the film could turn into a major franchise, and Amazon is apparently keen to get a sequel off the ground. In fact, it sounds like Greenfield and screenwriter Neil Goldman already have ideas in the pipeline.
“I mean, this is a massive franchise. Everyone knows it. When I go into a movie, I’m just so focused, again, as a writer-director, on making the film great. I don’t really go in usually of like, “Okay, how do I make four of these?” Because you’ve got to have the foundation. When you go to Lethal Weapon, when you go to Beverly Hills Cop, those originals are so fantastic. And then, when you make it just outstanding, the world is like, “Where’s the next one?” Obviously, Amazon is primed to go, and I’ve begun talking to Neil about that. We actually have some very funny ideas for what’s next. I’m sure that’s gonna start happening pretty quick.”
- Release Date
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November 12, 2025
- Director
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Luke Greenfield
- Producers
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Jeff Sussman, Kevin James, Neil Goldman, Alan Ritchson, Dan Spilo, Mark Fasano, Sean Patrick O’Reilly, Jeffrey Greenstein, Nathan Klingher, Jason Benoit