Almost Cops - Review
Almost Cops: A Hilariously Chaotic Ride Through Rotterdam's Underbelly
Dutch cinema, often lauded for its gritty realism and thought-provoking dramas, takes a sharp turn into comedic mayhem with "Almost Cops," a 2025 action-comedy that throws two wildly disparate law enforcement figures into a blender of crime, quirky characters, and laugh-out-loud situations. Released on July 10th, 2025, this film promises a refreshing, if sometimes uneven, take on the buddy-cop genre, delivering a vibrant and often absurd portrayal of Rotterdam's underbelly. While it may not reinvent the wheel, "Almost Cops" offers a genuinely entertaining experience, fueled by strong performances and a healthy dose of Dutch irreverence.
Plot: A Recipe for Disaster (and Laughter)
The narrative centers around two central figures: Bram, a perpetually enthusiastic community officer whose eagerness often borders on the delusional, and Vincent, a disgraced ex-detective haunted by past mistakes and nursing a serious cynicism. Bram, played with infectious energy by rising star Thijs Römer, sees the best in everyone and approaches his job with unwavering optimism, even when faced with the most hardened criminals. Vincent, portrayed by veteran actor Fedja van Huêt with a world-weary swagger, is the antithesis of Bram. He's jaded, cynical, and prefers to work alone, his dismissal from the detective force a constant reminder of his failures.
Their forced partnership begins when a series of seemingly unconnected petty crimes in Rotterdam escalate, hinting at a larger, more sinister conspiracy. Their superior, Chief Inspector De Vries (played with dry wit by Monic Hendrickx), recognizing the potential for Bram's local knowledge and Vincent's investigative experience, reluctantly pairs them together. The initial friction is palpable, with Bram's boundless optimism clashing spectacularly with Vincent's grumpy pessimism. Their methods are polar opposites, leading to a series of hilarious misadventures as they navigate the city's labyrinthine streets and encounter a cast of colorful characters, from eccentric informants to ruthless gangsters.
As they delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover a complex web of corruption involving a powerful real estate mogul, a shadowy network of arms dealers, and a long-forgotten cold case that ties directly to Vincent's past. The plot thickens with each twist and turn, keeping the audience guessing while simultaneously delivering ample doses of comedic relief. While the overarching narrative isn't groundbreaking, the film's strength lies in its execution, particularly the dynamic between Bram and Vincent and the quirky situations they find themselves in.
Characters: A Study in Contrasts
The success of "Almost Cops" hinges on the chemistry between its two leads, and Thijs Römer and Fedja van Huêt deliver in spades. Bram's unwavering optimism and naivety are both endearing and frustrating, providing a constant source of comedic tension. Römer perfectly embodies the character's earnestness, making him believable even in the most absurd situations. Vincent, on the other hand, is the archetypal grumpy detective, haunted by his past and struggling to find redemption. Van Huêt brings a depth and vulnerability to the role, making Vincent more than just a caricature of a cynical cop. His gradual thawing towards Bram and his grudging acceptance of their partnership is one of the film's most satisfying arcs.
The supporting characters are equally well-developed, adding depth and color to the film's vibrant world. Monic Hendrickx shines as Chief Inspector De Vries, a no-nonsense boss who is both exasperated and secretly amused by Bram and Vincent's antics. Her dry wit and sardonic remarks provide some of the film's funniest moments. The villains, while not particularly original, are effectively menacing, providing a credible threat to the protagonists. The eccentric informants and quirky side characters add to the film's overall charm, creating a sense of community and making Rotterdam feel like a living, breathing city.
Direction and Cinematography: Rotterdam Through a Comedic Lens
Director Joris van Dijk, known for his previous work in television comedies, brings a lighthearted and energetic approach to "Almost Cops." He skillfully balances the action and comedy elements, creating a film that is both thrilling and hilarious. Van Dijk's direction is confident and assured, allowing the actors to shine while maintaining a consistent tone throughout the film. He also utilizes the city of Rotterdam to great effect, showcasing its modern architecture and gritty urban landscape in a visually appealing way.
The cinematography, by DP Sophie van der Linden, is vibrant and dynamic, capturing the energy of Rotterdam with a keen eye for detail. The use of color is particularly effective, with bright, saturated hues highlighting the film's comedic tone and contrasting with the darker, more shadowy scenes that underscore the criminal underworld. The action sequences are well-choreographed and visually engaging, without resorting to excessive violence or shaky cam. Van der Linden's work contributes significantly to the film's overall aesthetic, creating a visually appealing and immersive experience.
Themes and Messages: Beyond the Laughter
While "Almost Cops" is primarily a comedy, it also explores several underlying themes. One of the most prominent is the importance of partnership and collaboration. Despite their initial animosity, Bram and Vincent learn to rely on each other's strengths and overcome their individual weaknesses. Their partnership highlights the power of teamwork and the benefits of embracing diversity.
The film also touches on themes of redemption and forgiveness. Vincent's past mistakes haunt him throughout the film, and he struggles to forgive himself for his failures. Through his partnership with Bram, he learns to confront his demons and find a path towards redemption. The film suggests that everyone deserves a second chance and that even the most jaded individuals can find hope and purpose.
Finally, "Almost Cops" offers a subtle critique of police corruption and the abuse of power. The film's villains are not simply cartoonish bad guys; they are individuals who have been corrupted by greed and a thirst for power. The film suggests that corruption can exist at all levels of society and that it is essential to hold those in power accountable.
Performances: A Showcase of Dutch Talent
The performances in "Almost Cops" are uniformly excellent, with Thijs Römer and Fedja van Huêt leading the charge. Römer's portrayal of Bram is both hilarious and endearing, capturing the character's boundless enthusiasm and naive optimism. Van Huêt delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Vincent, showcasing the character's cynicism and vulnerability. Their chemistry is undeniable, making their on-screen partnership believable and engaging.
Monic Hendrickx provides a memorable performance as Chief Inspector De Vries, delivering her lines with dry wit and sardonic humor. The supporting cast is equally strong, with each actor bringing depth and personality to their respective roles. The film showcases the depth and breadth of Dutch acting talent, proving that the Netherlands is capable of producing world-class performances.
Comparison to Similar Films
"Almost Cops" inevitably draws comparisons to other buddy-cop comedies, such as "Lethal Weapon," "Rush Hour," and "21 Jump Street." While it shares some similarities with these films, it also possesses its own unique identity. Unlike the American buddy-cop films, "Almost Cops" is grounded in a distinctly Dutch context, with its humor and characters reflecting the country's culture and sensibilities. The film also avoids the excessive violence and over-the-top action sequences that are common in Hollywood blockbusters, opting for a more grounded and realistic approach.
In some ways, "Almost Cops" also echoes the spirit of Edgar Wright's "Hot Fuzz," with its blend of action, comedy, and social commentary. However, "Almost Cops" is less satirical and more focused on character development and emotional resonance. While it may not reach the heights of "Hot Fuzz," it offers a similar blend of entertainment and substance.
Positive Aspects: A Winning Formula
There are several aspects of "Almost Cops" that deserve praise. The film's strongest asset is its cast, particularly the dynamic duo of Thijs Römer and Fedja van Huêt. Their chemistry is infectious, and their performances are both hilarious and compelling. The film's humor is also a major draw, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and witty dialogue. The direction is confident and assured, and the cinematography is visually appealing. The film's underlying themes add depth and substance to the narrative, making it more than just a superficial comedy.
The Rotterdam setting is also a major plus. The city is beautifully showcased, providing a vibrant and authentic backdrop for the story. The film's soundtrack is also well-chosen, featuring a mix of Dutch and international artists that complement the film's tone and energy.
Constructive Criticism: Room for Improvement
While "Almost Cops" is a generally enjoyable film, it is not without its flaws. The plot, while engaging, is somewhat predictable and relies on familiar tropes. The villains, while menacing, are not particularly original or memorable. The film's pacing can be uneven at times, with some scenes feeling rushed while others drag on for too long. The film's ending, while satisfying, feels somewhat anticlimactic and lacks the punch of a truly great finale.
Furthermore, while the film's humor is generally successful, some of the jokes fall flat or feel forced. The film could also benefit from a tighter edit, trimming some of the unnecessary scenes and tightening the overall narrative.
Conclusion: A Worthwhile Addition to Dutch Cinema
Despite its minor flaws, "Almost Cops" is a worthwhile addition to Dutch cinema. It offers a refreshing and entertaining take on the buddy-cop genre, fueled by strong performances, witty humor, and a vibrant Rotterdam setting. While it may not be a groundbreaking masterpiece, it is a genuinely enjoyable film that is sure to entertain audiences. The chemistry between Thijs Römer and Fedja van Huêt is undeniable, and their performances are a highlight of the film. The direction is confident and the cinematography is visually appealing. If you're looking for a lighthearted and entertaining action-comedy, "Almost Cops" is definitely worth checking out.