Looking at the trailer for this film, it’s fairly easy to assume
“another buddy cop movie”. Your assumption would be correct. How
many times have we seen this formula before and hasn’t Eddie Murphy
done this before (48 Hours)? What could possible get him to sign on
to this film. The pairing with one of the greatest actors today,
Robert DeNiro, is your answer. Another reason is that although “48
Hours” was perceived as a drama, this film is by all by means a
comedy. While their chemistry is borderline okay, DeNiro’s resigned
character and Murphy’s outrageous bumbling is enough to make you
laugh throughout the film. This is one enjoyable film worth seeing.
Eddie Murphy plays Trey Sellers, a police officer that’s trying
to start another career as an actor. DeNiro plays Mitch Preston, a
veteran detective on a stakeout. When Trey accidentally confuses
Mitch for a perp doing an exchange with a gun dealer (Mos Def), his
meddling almost gets he and Detective Preston killed. Along the
way, they are caught on camera as Preston lays it on Trey for being
a screwup. Chase Renzy (Rene Russo), a TV producer wants to create
a new version of “Cops”, using these cops as the leads. Much to
Preston’s chagrin, he’s forced to work with Trey, who’s having a
grand old time being on camera. Can these two offbeat characters
work together as they try to get along and solve the case of gun
smuggling?
What makes this film work is the chemistry between the two
leads. It’s very funny seeing these two powerful actors on screen
trying to make a connection. Eddie Murphy, who’s been on a
successful comedic journey in his last few films, is again
hilarious. Each scene he’s in makes you laugh even harder. DeNiro,
who’s not a comedian, but has been in comedy films, plays the role
with resignation. After “Analyze This” and “Meet the Parents”,
DeNiro has successfully entered the comedy market even if he
doesn’t have “funny bones”. Making a comeback in a small way is
Kadeem Hardison, whose picture can now be taken off the milk
cartons. Rene Russo has the glorious time as the producer looking
to make a hit show. “Showtime” is a film with enough comedy and
action that should attract the fans of each actor.