The Other Guys

Release Date: Aug 06, 2010 

Runtime: 1 hr. 47 min. 

Director: Adam McKay 

Cast: Will Ferrell, Mark Wahlberg, Eva Mendes, Michael Keaton, Samuel L. Jackson, Dwayne Johnson.

It’s been awhile since a Will Ferrell movie has even been considered remotely funny, and that includes the atrocity that was “Step Brothers.” But luckily for Ferrell, he may have regained his comedic mojo with “The Other Guys,” a buddy-cop comedy with no filters. Teaming up with the smile-phobic Mark Wahlberg, the oddball pair manages to keep up a hilarious rapport despite a complicated storyline. Each line is delivered with such deadpan expression that it’s a wonder how they filmed without an excess of outtakes. Like any venture by Adam McKay and Will Ferrell, the humor thrives on utter ridiculousness that knows no limits or bounds. The first 30 minutes alone will have you in stitches, whether it is the wild antics of Jackson and Johnson or the lion versus the tuna altercation. Nevertheless, underneath the absurdity lies an even more ludicrous plot about finance that fails to attract interest. After awhile, the comedic dialogue begins to weaken and becomes somewhat repetitive over the course of a lengthy film. But enjoyable it is, with as many quotable lines as a Ron Burgundy broadcasting. Michael Keaton continues to be the X factor, after his magnetic performance of Ken in “Toy Story 3,” as the affable chief of police that works a part-time job at Bed, Bath and Beyond. He, along with most of the supporting cast, adds extra hilarity when ‘the other guys’ aren’t around. If you’re looking for some release after the mind-bending “Inception,” this is the way to go. Overall, a good comedy that’s reminiscent of the Will Ferrell glory days. 

Rating: 3½ stars