THE MOVIE LOVER

01

Running Scared - 1986

This is one of my all time favorite movies. Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal are a perfect team of smart ass cops hunting down a drug dealer in a wintry Chicago setting. Young Jimmy Smits is fantastic as dealer Julio Gonzales and Joe Pantoliano is unforgettable as likeable yet sleazy Snake. The script is tight, smart and the action is on point. Did I forget to mention that this movie is also funny as hell. This is a must watch for lovers of the buddy cop genre. 

 

02

Lethal Weapon - 1987

Who doesn't love this classic. Danny Glover is family man and veteran cop Roger Murtaugh who reluctantly gets paired up with the hot mess and suicidal Martin Riggs ( played brilliantly by Mel Gibson). The chemistry between these two is undeniable and Shane Black's script is damn near perfect.

This movie has everything

• suspense

• comedy

• action

and most of all heart. 

Please tell me you've seen this movie.

 

03

In the Heat of the Night - 1967

This movie is of course the OG of the buddy cop genre. Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger work so well together, you almost don't want the movie to end. The performances make you feel like you're experiencing everything that is happening with the actors. This film made a huge impact on the film industry is a must see. 

 

04

The Other Guys - 2010

Your looking at the best of the best in buddy cop parody right here. Its full of pop culture references and Michael Keaton stands out as the caring and oblivious Captain Mauch. Mark Wahlberg is perfectly cast as the hot head wanna be hot shot Terry Holtz whose paired with his exact opposite, former police accountant Allen Gamble ( played by Will Ferrell). Together they attempt to prove themselves to their peers by taking down a big deal millionaire played by Steve Coogan. Even if you're not a fan of some of the cast, trust me you'll be laughing your butt off. 

 

05

48 Hrs - 1982

Another classic film that proves casting is everything in this genre. Eddie Murphy is scene stealing as convict Reggie Hammond whose forced to work with the bitter, grumpy veteran cop Jack Cates ( played with perfection by Nick Nolte). The supporting cast in this film is beyond amazing. Sonny Landham, James Remar, Jonathan Banks, Annette O'Toole, the list goes on. Walter Hill ( who I absolutely love to death) directed and co-wrote this gritty, wonderful film that was the 7th highest grossing film in the US in 1982.

 

06

Tango & Cash - 1989

Tango & Cash, oh, Tango & Cash. First off let me say that I am an action movie junkie. Sylvester Stallone is my heroin. He plays the sexy, stuck up Beverly Hills Det. Raymond Tango who has to work with the sexy, street smart. inner city Det. Gabriel Cash to clear their names. Kurt Russell ( who is always great) plays Cash and believe me, he does not disappoint. Jack Palance is the epitome of bad guys as Yves Perret. Action movies were at the top of their game in the 80s and 90s and this is a perfect example.

 

07

Showdown in Little Tokyo - 1991

This movie is hot. In all aspects HOT! We're talking a young Dolph Lundgren, the always swoon worthy Brandon Lee, Sexy Tia Carrere, people eating sushi off of naked women and insane Yakuza ceremonies. What more can you ask for! Lundgren plays the zen LA Det. Chris Kenner who grew in Japan and knows his stuff. He's partnered with the cocky Japanese-American Johnny Murata played by Lee. Together they must take down a Yakuza drug boss played by the great character actor Cary-Hiroyaki Tagawa. Its non-stop action and a damn fun ride so if you haven't seen this. Do it!

 

08

Turner & Hooch - 1989

Tom Hanks teams up with a murder victim's french mastiff to find a killer. Do you need to know anything else. Watch it!!

 

09

The Guard - 2011

I think its safe to say Brendan Gleesan is one of the best actors to come out of Ireland. He plays a completely unorthodox irish police officer who is partnered with a by the book F.B.I. agent ( played by the masterful Don Cheadle) to investigate a drug ring led by Mark Strong and Liam Cunningham. This film is a perfect combination of smart comedy and crime thriller. Plus Don Cheadle in a small town in Ireland.....YES!!

 

10

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang - 2005

Robert Downey Jr., Val Kilmer, Shane Black, drugs, Los Angeles...do I have your attention? The best way I can describe this film is to say its a perfect tongue-in-cheek satire that blends action, witty dialogue and a noir atmosphere. Black's script is so smart and well written and Downey Jr and Kilmer are so convincing as these characters, you will want to be a part of their lives. You will literally want this to be happening to you just so you can be around these people.If you haven't seen it......I can't help you.