The dynamic in Friday follows in the tradition of such comic duos as Cheech and Chong. Ice Cube’s Craig is more grounded and hesitant to stir up trouble, with a dry sense of humor. Meanwhile, Smokey ...

The 1995 comedy was very much a gamble when it was in development. Sure, Ice Cube — who co-wrote, produced, and starred in the film — was already a proven commodity in music. But with only a few movie ...