Review of Let's Be Cops (2014) by Troy C — 13 Nov 2014

When two slacker mates wear LAPD costumes to a party and are mistaken for the real thing, they decide to maintain the ruse to keep getting the attention and respect they have always wanted. It's a wonderfully simple premise that, although skimping on realism and cleverness, offers a gag rate that comes thick and fast.

It's no surprise that this quantity over quality approach leads to many unfunny jokes and flat patches, however it also yields a bunch of hilarious moments thanks to the surprising chemistry between the cast members.

With a comedic sensibility somewhere between Seth Rogen's shlubby-ness and Charlie Day's hyperactivity, Jake Johnson isn't to everyone's taste yet is pitch perfect as the extroverted loser who takes the deception to ridiculous (and highly illegal) lengths.

Damon Wayans Jr. isn't anywhere near as impressive and - an amusing impersonation of a psychopathic crim and subsequent drug trip aside - generates very few laughs on his own, but as Johnson's more sensible partner in crime he stops the film from slipping into complete parody.

It may not be an intelligent or mature comedy and it certainly doesn't deserve a viewing on the big screen, Let's Be Cops is nevertheless an amusing diversion that would go perfectly with beer and pizza in the comfort of your own home.