Almost Cops (2025) – A Heartfelt Buddy Cop Comedy from Rotterdam
Almost Cops is a Dutch action comedy film released in July 2025 on Netflix. Directed by Gonzalo Fernandez Carmona and starring Jandino Asporaat as Ramon and Werner Kolf as Jack, the film tells a story rooted in the streets of Rotterdam. It blends action, comedy, and emotional storytelling into a fresh and culturally unique buddy cop adventure.
A Fresh Take on the Buddy Cop Formula
The movie follows Ramon, a cheerful and responsible BOA (a Dutch community officer), who is suddenly thrown into a murder investigation after his brother is killed while working on a drug case. Ramon is unexpectedly partnered with Jack, a disgraced former detective who is frustrated and cynical after being demoted. The unlikely duo begins an investigation to uncover the truth, clashing often in style and attitude. Ramon follows the rules and believes in doing good, while Jack takes shortcuts and bends laws to get results. Their mission leads them through the underbelly of Rotterdam, forcing them to work together while facing their personal conflicts and emotional baggage. Despite being a comedy, the plot centers on grief, justice, and brotherhood, making it more than just a slapstick experience.
Laughter and Emotion in Equal Measure
Almost Cops combines physical comedy with real emotional weight. It’s filled with absurd, laugh-out-loud moments, such as a scene where a criminal demands a helicopter ride to the Bahamas. At the same time, the film doesn’t shy away from genuine emotional moments. Ramon is mourning the loss of his brother, and Jack is dealing with his fall from grace. These themes are woven into the script with sincerity, making the characters feel human and relatable. The comedy is broad and at times silly, but it never loses the thread of the story. The film successfully balances its light-hearted tone with themes of loss, redemption, and purpose, creating a story that’s both fun to watch and meaningful.
Engaging Characters and Strong Chemistry
The heart of Almost Cops lies in its lead characters. Jandino Asporaat delivers a warm, likeable performance as Ramon, portraying him with charm and emotional depth. Werner Kolf plays Jack with a gruff, hardened presence that contrasts well with Ramon’s optimism. Their chemistry is natural and compelling, gradually evolving from friction to friendship. Supporting actors like Ergun Simsek and Florence Vos Weeda add flair and humor, making each scene feel lively. Together, the cast brings energy and authenticity to the film, helping it stand out from other buddy cop movies. What makes their relationship work is the slow build of trust, the believable dialogue, and the way each learns something from the other.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Almost Cops succeeds in creating an entertaining and heartfelt experience. The cultural context of Dutch BOAs, the emotional journey of the lead characters, and the unique Rotterdam setting give it a distinct flavor. The story is easy to follow, and its pacing keeps the viewer engaged. However, some parts of the film feel predictable. It leans on well-known tropes from buddy cop movies, such as the reluctant partnership, the angry chief, and the corruption twist. Some viewers may find these elements too familiar or safe. The humor, while enjoyable, may not land with everyone due to its silly nature. Still, the overall execution is clean and satisfying, with enough originality to hold interest.
Final Verdict – Should You Watch It?
Almost Cops is a charming, feel-good comedy with a lot of heart. While it doesn’t try to reinvent the buddy cop genre, it succeeds in telling a sincere and enjoyable story. The strong chemistry between the leads, the cultural backdrop, and the emotional layers give it a fresh appeal. It’s the kind of movie you can watch after a long day, knowing you’ll laugh, feel something, and leave satisfied. For fans of films like Bad Boys or The Nice Guys who are curious about international takes on the genre, this Dutch film is worth the watch.
Overall rating: 3 out of 5 – An entertaining and heartwarming buddy cop comedy with Dutch flavor and emotional charm.