Although a sequel to the cult-favorite The Nice Guys may never come to fruition, HBO Max’s new retro crime series Duster offers a worthy alternative for fans of 1970s-style crime stories. Premiering exclusively on HBO Max on May 15, 2025, Duster brings viewers back to the gritty, stylish world of 1970s detective dramas — a perfect pick for those still hoping for news on a Nice Guys follow-up.
The Nice Guys vs. Duster: Similar Vibes, Different Stories
The Nice Guys — the 2016 buddy-cop crime comedy starring Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe — earned critical acclaim with a 91% Certified Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, yet its box office haul was modest at $71.26 million worldwide. Despite persistent fan interest, there have been no updates on a sequel.
Duster, co-created by LaToya Morgan (The Walking Dead, Shameless) and J.J. Abrams, offers a fresh 1970s crime thriller experience that shares many similarities with The Nice Guys. Both projects lean heavily into the aesthetic and sound of the era, complete with killer soundtracks packed with pop, funk, and Motown hits.
While The Nice Guys tilts more toward action-comedy, Duster delivers a thrilling crime drama with moments of levity that balance the tension. Set primarily in 1970s Arizona, Duster follows Jim Ellis (Josh Holloway), a gangster getaway driver, and FBI agent Nina Hayes (Rachel Hilson), whose investigation into the murder of Jim’s brother reveals a tangled web of crime and corruption.
Critical Praise for Duster Matches The Nice Guys’ Success
Both series have received positive critical reception: Duster currently holds a 92% Rotten Tomatoes score with an 84% audience rating, while The Nice Guys sits at 91% and 79%, respectively.
Ben Travers of IndieWire comments, “Duster gets so many of the little things right, it’s easy to set your quibbles aside and just enjoy the ride.” Similarly, Screen Rant praises Duster for its “masterful balance of classic thrills and timeless heart,” calling it “tremendously fun TV.”
Fans who loved the sharp chemistry between Gosling and Crowe in The Nice Guys will likely appreciate the dynamic between Holloway and Hilson in Duster, as well as the authentic vintage feel both productions capture.
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Why Duster Should Be Your Next Crime Thriller Binge
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Set in the evocative 1970s with authentic style and soundtrack
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Compelling lead duo with strong performances
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High critical acclaim comparable to The Nice Guys
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Ongoing weekly episodes on HBO Max through July 3, 2025
If you’ve been waiting for The Nice Guys 2 or simply want a great throwback crime thriller with heart and style, Duster is an ideal choice.
