Let's Be Cops

Former college quarterback Ryan (Jake Johnson), and low-level video-game designer Justin (Damon Wayans Jr.) dress up in police uniforms for a Purdue University reunion that they mistakenly believe is a costume party. Walking home afterwards, the pair are suddenly accorded a respect that has been missing from their ordinary lives in Los Angeles. So when Ryan finds a used police car for sale on eBay, they take their impersonations one step further—purchasing bulletproof vests and other paraphernalia, learning law enforcement lingo, and going out on patrol in their disguises. While Justin enjoys the attention of Josie (Nina Dobrev), a waitress who yearns to be a Hollywood makeup artist, their charade misfires when they encounter a gang of Eastern European mobsters, headed by veritable psychopath Mossi (James D'Arcy), who shows intense interest in the little restaurant where Josie works. Accompanied by Segars (Rob Riggle), a veteran cop who initially thinks the faux pair are authentic, they find themselves entangled in a criminal investigation that is way above their pay-grade. Directed by Luke Greenfield, this tedious wannabe action comedy is criminally bad. Not recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include two audio commentaries (one by director Luke Greenfield, the other by co-writer Nicholas Thomas), a “Brothers in Blue” behind-the-scenes featurette (11 min.), a stills gallery, and a trailer. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release are deleted and alternate scenes (18 min.), a “Real Funny” production segment (9 min.), a camera test (6 min.), and bonus digital and UltraViolet copies of the film. Bottom line: a decent extras package for a lame film.] (S. Granger)