6.7/10
78% Critics / 60% Audience
When you think of buddy cop movies, you probably picture explosive action, witty banter, and a couple of mismatched partners trying to save the day. The Other Guys (2010) takes that formula, turns it upside down, and delivers one of the funniest parodies of the genre. Directed by Adam McKay and starring Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg, the film also features Eva Mendes, Michael Keaton, Steve Coogan, Samuel L. Jackson, and Dwayne Johnson in supporting roles.
Released on August 6, 2010, the movie became both a box office success—earning over $170 million worldwide—and a fan favorite, praised for its absurd humor and surprising action sequences. It stands out not only as one of the sharpest comedies of its decade but also as a satire of corporate greed and over-the-top Hollywood cop clichés.
The Other Guys – Official Trailer
What is The Other Guys About?
After NYPD supercops Danson (Dwayne Johnson) and Highsmith (Samuel L. Jackson) die in a ridiculous rooftop chase, the spotlight falls on two unlikely detectives: Allen Gamble (Will Ferrell), a mild-mannered forensic accountant, and Terry Hoitz (Mark Wahlberg), a hot-headed cop infamous for accidentally shooting Derek Jeter.
Ridiculed by their peers, the duo stumble onto what looks like a routine scaffolding permit violation, only to uncover a massive financial scheme involving billionaire Sir David Ershon (Steve Coogan) and mercenaries led by Roger Wesley (Ray Stevenson). With their captain (Michael Keaton) reluctantly supporting them—while juggling his second job at Bed Bath & Beyond—Allen and Terry find themselves in way over their heads.
Is The Other Guys Worth Watching?
Yes—The Other Guys is absolutely worth watching if you enjoy sharp comedy blended with outrageous action. The film doesn’t just spoof buddy cop tropes; it embraces them with a mix of absurdity and clever writing.
Whether it’s Will Ferrell’s unexpectedly wild alter ego “Gator” or Wahlberg’s constant frustration at being paired with a paper-pusher, the chemistry between the leads elevates the film beyond parody into something genuinely memorable.
Why Should I Watch The Other Guys?
You should watch The Other Guys if you’re looking for:
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Unmatched comedic chemistry – Ferrell’s awkward accountant perfectly clashes with Wahlberg’s aggressive energy.
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Over-the-top action satire – From helicopter explosions to Priuses rigged for stunts, the film delivers set pieces that rival straight action films.
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A clever social commentary – Beneath the laughs, the movie skewers financial corruption and the aftermath of corporate bailouts.
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Surprise supporting performances – Michael Keaton quoting TLC songs as the police captain, Eva Mendes as Ferrell’s unexpectedly glamorous wife, and cameos from Jackson and Johnson that steal the opening act.
It’s one of those comedies that holds up on repeat viewings, offering both big laughs and background details you catch later.
Cast and Characters
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Will Ferrell – Detective Allen “Gator” Gamble
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Mark Wahlberg – Detective Terry Hoitz
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Eva Mendes – Dr. Sheila Gamble, Allen’s wife
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Michael Keaton – Captain Gene Mauch
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Steve Coogan – Sir David Ershon
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Ray Stevenson – Roger Wesley
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Samuel L. Jackson – Detective Highsmith
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Dwayne Johnson – Detective Danson
The film also features Rob Riggle, Damon Wayans Jr., Bobby Cannavale, Anne Heche (uncredited cameo) and many more in hilarious supporting roles.
Production
Director Adam McKay came up with the idea after recognizing the comedic chemistry between Ferrell and Wahlberg. Principal photography began in New York City in September 2009, with additional scenes shot in Albany, Staten Island, and Westchester.
The film’s practical stunt work, including a Prius rigged with a racing engine, added to its absurdity while parodying the seriousness of traditional action movies.
Release and Reception
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Release date: August 6, 2010 (U.S.)
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Box office: $170.9 million worldwide
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Rotten Tomatoes: 78% approval rating
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Metacritic: 64/100 score
Critics praised its humor and originality, with Rolling Stone’s Peter Travers calling it “wildly hilarious” and Richard Roeper declaring it “the right way to spoof the buddy cop genre.” It went on to win Best Comedy Film at the 2011 Comedy Awards.
The Other Guys FAQ
Is The Other Guys connected to other Adam McKay films?
Yes. It was the fourth collaboration between McKay and Ferrell after Anchorman, Talladega Nights, and Step Brothers.
Is the film just a parody or a real cop story?
It’s both—a parody of cop-buddy action films, but also with a surprisingly layered plot about financial corruption.
Is the humor family-friendly?
Not really. The film is rated PG-13 for language, sexual references, and action violence.
Why is Derek Jeter in the movie?
Mark Wahlberg’s character accidentally shoots him during the World Series, earning him a bad reputation within the NYPD.
Does the film have a sequel?
No sequel has been made, but Ferrell and Wahlberg later reunited in Daddy’s Home (2015) and its sequel.
Conclusion
The Other Guys is far more than a simple buddy cop spoof—it’s a sharp, action-packed comedy that balances absurdity with biting satire. With memorable performances from Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg, plus scene-stealing cameos and outrageous set pieces, it’s a film that redefines the genre while delivering non-stop laughs.
Over a decade later, it remains one of the funniest entries in modern comedy, proving that sometimes the “other guys” are the real heroes worth watching.
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