Movie Review: The Other Guys

Synopsis: Two mismatched New York City detectives (Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell) seize an opportunity to step up like the city's top cops whom they idolize -- only things don't quite go as planned.

I'm going to file this movie under "very pleasant surprises for 2010". I really didn't think much of it when it was released as it looked like just another buddy cop film, despite the fact that I like Wahlberg. I was wrong, it's actually a very funny and entertaining buddy cop film.

Wahlberg and Ferrell actually have great chemistry as Mark's tough guy straight man is a perfect match for Will's quirky character. The supporting cast also makes a huge difference with Samuel L. Jackson and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as a team of cops at the beginning of the movie that are so great I'd like to see a spin-off movie of just those 2. There's still another great duo with the hilarious Rob Riggins and Damon Wayans Jr. as partners and they steal nearly every scene they're in. Hell I'd watch a movie with just those 2 also. And as if that weren't enough you get one of my all-time favorites Michael Keaton (Mr. Mom!!!), a fantastic cameo from Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter and for the eyes there's the lovely Eva Mendes too. They should give an Oscar to whoever cast this film.

The plot is just predicatable and average, so the movie relies on the comedy to keep it interesting and also the special effects and action scenes. This thing has plenty of both and enough to put it up there with bigtime Summer blockbusters. There are lots of car chases, shootouts and explosions to keep the pace moving along and get you from 1 laugh to the next.

Good action, average plot... but in the end, it's the witty one-liners and great supporting cast that make this a solid film worth watching.

7.5/10