Not Such a Cop Out
Fast paced. Witty one liners. Action packed. These all describe Kevin Smith’s new film Cop Out, the first film where he acts solely as the director. Previous works from his “Askewniverse” involved him as director, producer, writer and actor in his recognisable role as Silent Bob. This is only his third film that doesn’t link to any of his other work: previous films in the “Askewniverse” always had reference to other films, plot cross overs and the same characters. Only one of these features remains as Smith film regular Jason Lee makes an appearance as the character Roy.
The film opens with the introduction of the heroes Jimmy and Paul, played by Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan, as two NYPD officers. The on screen chemistry between the two can be placed in the same legue as Mel Gibson and Danny Glover in Lethal Weapon and Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker in Rush Hour. The film works well as a comedy and Smith’s trademark touch is evident with the portrayal of the heroes mirroring trates of a married couple. Comedic actors each add their own unique elements to the plot. Sean William Scott makes an appearance as parkour thief Dave who is adept at annoying Morgan’s character. Adam Brody also appears as police officer Barry Mangold who is rivals with Jimmy and Paul. Both actors bring to the film their trademark styles: Brody’s sarcastic and patronising manner and William Scott’s immaturity. Both, however, work really well to cater to various senses of humour.
The plot is one that constantly escalates as events for the heroes snowball out of control. The main focus, however, is not of two cops trying to take down a drug lord but two cops trying to retrieve a valuable baseball card so Jimmy can pay for his daughter’s wedding. Jason Lee’s portrayal of step dad Roy is excellent as an explanation for Jimmy’s unrelenting quest to regain the means to give his daughter the wedding she wants. Paul too has dramas in his life as we learn of his suspicions that his wife is having an affair. This runs parallel with Jimmy’s dilemma and provides regular comic relief throughout.
There is a right way to making a film, a wrong way to making a film and there’s Kevin Smith’s way of making a film. Whether a fan of Smith’s films or not this is one that has something for everyone.
Check out the trailer at: COP OUT
