It's hard to believe, given his assured comic skill and impeccable timing, that '48 Hrs' was his first movie. It's definitely one of his best. MurphyÂ’s on-screen partnership with gravel-voiced Nick Nolte sparks like a fist to the jaw.

'48 Hrs', with its perfect chalk and cheese partnership, paved the way for the unstoppable craze for ‘buddyÂ’ movies. Director Walter Hill brings his trademark grit and style to a film that certainly lasted a lot longer than its title let on.