Keke Palmer Is the Real Mastermind in Eddie Murphy’s New Action-Comedy The Pickup (Movie Review)

The Pickup - On Prime August 6th

Eddie Murphy’s back, Pete Davidson is chaotic as ever, and Keke Palmer? She’s the one you really need to watch.

In The Pickup, a heist gone sideways brings together mismatched armored truck drivers, a wild criminal crew, and one very calculated antagonist. Directed by Tim Story (Barbershop, Ride Along) and written by Kevin Burrows & Matt Mider, the film is full of firepower, fast one-liners, and the kind of energy that reminds you why we love action-comedies in the first place.

Murphy plays Russell, a seasoned driver who just wants to clock in and clock out. Pete Davidson’s Travis is the exact opposite — unpredictable, loud, and somehow always in over his head. But the real shake-up comes in the form of Zoe, played by Keke Palmer, a criminal mastermind with a plan that turns a routine pickup into a full-blown disaster movie with jokes.

“She’s bold, smart, and always one step ahead — and I loved every second of becoming her,” Keke said at the film’s press conference.

And she meant it. Zoe is cunning, commanding, and impossible to look away from.

Zoe (Keke Palmer) in The Pickup

Behind the Scenes: Mutual Respect, Improvised Magic

At the Los Angeles press conference, the cast was full of love — especially when it came to Keke. She called working alongside Eddie Murphy “a dream come true,” saying she grew up watching his films and credits his career as part of the blueprint for her own.

Eddie returned the love right back:

“Fearless.”That’s how he described her — even comparing her instincts and range to his own early days.

Keke also revealed that many of her best scenes were improvised:

“The freedom on set made the comedy come alive.”Director Tim Story clearly trusted his cast, and it shows.

Eddie Murphy and Pete Davidson in The Pickup

So, Is It Worth Watching?

If you’re looking for a movie that reinvents the genre — this isn’t that. But if you want something fun, fast, and starring people who know how to entertain, The Pickup is a guaranteed good time.

Murphy gives us classic Eddie — cool under pressure with perfect comedic timing. Davidson does what he does best, adding just the right amount of chaos. But it’s Keke Palmer who steals every scene she’s in. Her portrayal of Zoe is sharp, stylish, and layered with unexpected depth. She’s not just the villain — she’s the moment.

Final Take:

Come for Eddie. Stay for Keke.The Pickup is proof that comedy, action, and strong female leads can absolutely coexist. And in a year full of reboots, sequels, and superhero fatigue — this one feels like a breath of fresh (and funny) air.

THAheadline Score (THAscore): 9/10

Starring: Eddie Murphy, Keke Palmer, Pete Davidson, Eva Longoria, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Jack Kesy, Marshawn Lynch, Joe “Roman Reigns” Anoa’i

Directed by: Tim Story

Written by: Kevin Burrows & Matt Mider

Produced by: John Davis, John Fox, Eddie Murphy, Tim Story, Charisse Hewitt-Webster

Release Date: August 6, 2025