The 2015 comedy starring Reese Witherspoon and Sofía Vergara is now number 2 on Netflix despite appalling critic reviews
Lucas Hill-Paul Content Editor
17:52, 03 Jan 2026
Daniella must dodge corrupt cops and gangsters to testify against a crime lord(Image: WARNER BROS)
One of Netflix’s standout film recommendations this weekend is an unexpected action-comedy from more than a decade ago. Having climbed the rankings this week, it currently sits at number two as of Saturday, 3rd January, trailing only the distressing true crime documentary Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story.
It’s even surpassed one of the platform’s biggest successes from late 2025, the latest Knives Out murder mystery, Wake Up Dead Man, which presently occupies third place. Yet the film’s remarkable showing might surprise many, given it garnered a dismal 8 percent critics score on Rotten Tomatoes upon its initial release.
Don’t allow the professional critics to discourage you, however, as Hot Pursuit, featuring Reese Witherspoon and Sofía Vergara, boasts numerous devoted supporters ready to champion it, reports the Mirror.
A cop is tasked with a dangerous mission to transport a cartel wife across Texas(Image: WARNER BROS)READ MORE: Stranger Things’ Finn Wolfhard teases return to IT role after epic finaleREAD MORE: The Netflix Run Away locations you can visit in real life – including spots in Greater Manchester
Hollywood heavyweight Witherspoon, of Big Little Lies fame, plays Officer Rose Cooper, thrust into a dangerous journey across Texas to safeguard the spouse of a cartel kingpin, Vergara’s Daniella Riva, from a legion of bent police officers and criminals baying for her blood.
One five-star assessment from an RT viewer branded it “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 glowing testimonial 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.”
Daniella must dodge corrupt cops and gangsters to testify against a crime lord(Image: WARNER BROS)
Someone else commented: “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.”
Another admirer even drew parallels with an 80s favourite, noting: “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.”
Critics hated the film but many fans say it’s well worth a watch(Image: WARNER BROS)
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Strong opinions flooded IMDb as well, with one enthusiast awarding it a perfect 10 out of 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 viewer 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 this weekend?
Hot Pursuit is available to stream on Netflix.
