Shane Black presents another entertaining neo-noir buddy crime caper that feels like an extension of Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.

Gosling showcases an effective brand of physical comedy playing a widowed private-eye while Crowe is well-suited at playing a burly and mostly impassive figure. The interplay between the two is great. Also, Angourie Rice, who plays Gosling’s daughter, is quite impressive and gets an extensive role in the story.

Shane Black’s signature writing is evident and the movie maintains a good comedic tone throughout. Some detective movie tropes jump in and out of the story but the production design and mood feels just right.

Overall, after what feels like a barrage of big budget superhero movies and news stories, The Nice Guys comes across like a refreshing low-key and entertaining escape