End of Watch (2012)

Probably the most authentic movie I have ever seen as it feels more like a documentary than a movie, despite all the characters being fictional. The premise is simple, two patrol cops work one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in LA. Things start to run afoul when they run into conflict with a Mexican cartel.

The cinematography reflects this authenticity as Gyllenhaal's character uses a video camera to document what is happening for his film project. The movie is almost entirely done with a handheld camera creating an effect that immerses the viewer into the situation. Yet this technique also has pitfalls as it can be disorientating for the viewer as there are times where the shaky camera makes it hard to make out what is going on.

The acting on both leads in this film is perfect as Gyllenhaal and Peña have amazing chemistry that allows for some great lines of dialogue. The two feel like real people and allows the viewer to witness what feels like a genuine brotherhood. This is one of the most authentic buddy cop dynamics I have seen especially when the trope is almost saturated in Hollywood. The characters in this movie are amazing including Anna Kendrick's character who may not have that much screen time but still manages to make her character likable and realistic.

The plot is slightly confusing as the chain of events does not run like a normal movie. Events take place almost randomly as the movie attempts to make itself feel as authentic as possible. The effect is good and bad as it confuses the audience and makes it hard to understand what the underlying plot even is. The movie also enjoys subverting common tropes as we expect the ending to be your standard Hollywood ending, where the two hero cops miraculously bring down the cartel and get out unscathed. Instead, the situation is dire and both cops are ambushed by cartel hoodlums. They manage to escape and right before we expect them to get out, Gyllenhaal is shot and we see a harrowing display of emotion as Peñe holds him. Yet instead of Gyllenhaal's character dying, it's Peñe's who is shot multiple times as the hoodlums come up from behind him. The movie ends bittersweetly with a cut back to the day of the shooting and a video of the two sharing a joke.

The pacing in this movie works exceptionally well as the moments of humor blend seamlessly into tense spurts of action. None of it is saturated as the action is realistic and jarring. The action is also incredibly tense as the viewer has no idea what will happen next. The humor helps to relieve some of this tension in a way that allows viewers to connect to the characters and allowing a slight break from the chaos.

Despite its flaws, this movie is incredibly entertaining with a great cast of characters and fantastic pacing. A truly unique and authentic film that stands far above your average cop movie. I give this movie a 7 out of 10.
- GL

7 / 10



 (Above) My favourite shot:


(Below) Two runners-up:





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