Fans ignore critics as ‘funniest movie’ with 8% score tops Netflix | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV

An unexpected action-comedy from more than a decade ago has emerged as one of Netflix’s weekend favourites.

Having climbed the rankings this week, it sits at number two as of Saturday, 3rd January, trailing only the chilling true crime documentary Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story.

It’s even surpassed one of the platform’s major end-of-2025 releases, the latest Knives Out instalment, Wake Up Dead Man, which currently occupies third place.

The film’s remarkable showing may surprise many, given it garnered a dismal 8 percent critics score on Rotten Tomatoes upon its initial release.

Big Little Lies star Witherspoon plays Officer Rose Cooper, thrust into a dangerous journey across Texas to safeguard cartel boss’s wife Daniella Riva, portrayed by Vergara, from a legion of crooked police officers and criminals baying for her blood.

One five-star RT review hailed it as “one of the funniest movies ever!!!!!

“Bought it and my daughter and I watch it whenever we need a good laugh. Gets funnier every time we watch it.”

Another enthusiastic viewer proclaimed: “This movie was one of the funniest movies I’ve ever seen! The critics are wrong on this one, like they usually are for fun comedies that shouldn’t be taken too seriously.”

Another viewer enthused: “Hot Pursuit is a hilarious and high-energy comedy that fully delivers on its promise of laughs. Reese Witherspoon and Sofía Vergara have fantastic chemistry, and their contrasting personalities make for nonstop entertainment.

“The movie doesn’t take itself too seriously, which works in its favor, leaning into over-the-top humor and fast-paced chaos. It’s fun, lighthearted, and consistently funny, making it a perfect choice if you’re in the mood for a feel-good comedy.”

One supporter drew parallels with a beloved 80s film, remarking: “I personally don’t think it’s that bad.

“It’s basically a female version of Midnight Run, but aimed at a younger audience. Of course no way near as good. But it’s still decent and entertaining.”

Strong praise continued on IMDb, where one devotee awarded it a perfect 10/10, declaring: “I totally loved this funny movie which has entertaining action scenes and girls that are sweeter than sugar.

“I wish I could hug and kiss Reese and Sofia because they are irresistible actresses. See this movie, have terrific fun and forget the problems of life.”

A final admirer shared: “I read reviews about how terrible this movie was so I went into the cinema not expecting much.

“I don’t think I stopped laughing! I loved this movie and thought Reese and Sophia were brilliant together. Great show and would go see it again for sure.

“It’s a comedy, it’s light hearted and it’s great! Plenty of gags, good laughs and even some girl on girl action which was hilarious. Don’t listen to the snooty critics. Go have some fun and enjoy this comedy.”

Will you be taking their advice for your weekend entertainment?

Hot Pursuit is available to stream on Netflix. 

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