By Dennis D. McDonald

Michael Peña and Jake Gyllenhaal

I have no idea how realistic END OF WATCH is but it’s easily the best cop movie I seen in many years. Two buddies played masterfully by Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña are out to do justice and serve the public. This runs afoul of The Cartel that has set up shop in the seedy region of Los Angeles they cruise.

One of the most fascinating things about this movie is how many stock situations and stereotypes it makes use of and yet makes them real. We care about these guys and their mission even though, early on, we suspect that This Is Not Going To End Well.

But we watch anyway. These guys are brave, funny, dedicated, serious, and a bit crazy. The chases, gunfire, foul language, and horrific scenes they witness would bring down lesser souls. We keep wishing them the best of luck as they ride along.

Review copyright (c) 2014 by Dennis D. McDonald