We chat with director Luke Greenfield for the hilarious new comedy "Playdate"

Reel Perspectives

November 12, 2025

Get ready for a thrilling ride with Prime Video's latest comedy-action film, "Playdate," starring Kevin James and Alan Ritchson. The movie premieres today and we took the opportunity to chat with director Luke Greenfield for an exclusive interview about what audiences can expect.

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.

Based on the film's marketing, we already had a good idea of what to expect. Two oddball characters with polar opposite personalities and different skill sets (one providing the action and the other delivering the comedy) are thrust into high stakes action sequences, battling bad guys in comedic situations, and ultimately saving the day while becoming BFFs by the end. "Playdate" is no exception. Writer Neil Goldman (Family Guy, Scrubs, and Community) provides one unlikely setting after another and catapults the film into chaotic energy with hilariously absurd sequences, rarely taking his foot off the pedal and offering some pretty surprising emotional beats that will resonate with viewers.

Reel Perspectives took the opportunity to speak with director Luke Greenfield (The Animal, The Girl Next Door) to discuss his creative vision and a possible sequel that may be in the works.

Ritchson, who is best known as Jack Reacher in Prime Video's hit series "Reacher", obviously provides the muscle and brawn. He's completely in his element in robust action sequences, pumping with adrenaline while delivering laughs with charm and excellent comedic timing that may surprise many viewers. Known for his muscle roles, his upcoming film "Motor City" will play to those strengths, but here, he still gets to kick butt while being an affable goofball, putting him in stark contrast with his imposing physique. If you only knew Ritchson as the silent stoic Reacher, the film perfectly highlights the actor's comedic range. James, best known as Doug Heffernan on the CBS sitcom The King of Queens, plays the windbreaker-clad, straight-laced forensic accountant providing the perfect contrast to Ritchson's tough exterior, resulting in plenty of laughs throughout the film.

Of course, there's the typical car chase sequence in every comedy-action film, as our heroes try to evade mercenaries, but a car chase that involves several minivans invoking raucous laughter, and featuring a running gag of Honda Odyssey SUVs is sheer comic gold.

In addition to Ritchson and James, adding to the laughs is a talented cast of supporting players that includes Sarah Chalke as Emily, Alan Tudyk as Simon Maddox, Stephen Root as Gordon, Isla Fisher as Leslie, Benjamin Pajak as Lucas, and Banks Pierce as CJ. Fisher, most notably, has one of the funniest scenes in the entire movie, and it would be a delight to see her in her own spinoff in the near future.

Beneath the humor and playful antics, "Playdate" has heart and effectively showcases the importance of wanting to be a good parent and the relationship dynamics between father and son. Capitalizing on the strengths of both stars, Greenfield's passion for music influences the hip-hop and pop culture references we see throughout the movie, elevating it to laugh-out-loud territory and effectively blending comedy, action, and emotional beats.

"Playdate" is an absolute blast. Hilariously fun and bursting with energy, it has a surprise twist that anchors its emotional elements and gives it the emotional nuance that is both satisfying and rewarding. The effortless chemistry between Ritchson and James adds to the film's appeal and makes the entire movie worth watching.

"Playdate" is streaming now on Prime Video.

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