Twenty-seven years ago, the neo-noir crime thriller “Cop Land” brought together Sylvester Stallone and Robert De Niro on screen for the first time. This film, while not revolutionary in its genre, stands out due to its stellar cast and compelling performances, particularly from Stallone and De Niro. It is arguably one of Stallone’s most underrated movies. Joining them are crime-drama veterans Harvey Keitel and Ray Liotta, adding depth and charisma to the film. It is somewhat surprising that “Cop Land” marked the first collaboration between Stallone and De Niro.
Stallone, a legendary figure in cinema, had his breakthrough in 1976 with the iconic film “Rocky.” This Oscar-nominated sports drama not only launched the successful “Rocky” franchise but also established Stallone as a major action star, later solidified by his role in the “Rambo” series. On the other hand, De Niro’s career took off around the same time with his Oscar-winning performance in “The Godfather Part II.” Known for his dramatic roles and frequent collaborations with Martin Scorsese, De Niro’s career trajectory intersects intriguingly with Stallone’s.
James Mangold, known for his genre-spanning films such as “Logan,” “Walk the Line,” and “Girl, Interrupted,” directed “Cop Land.” Released in 1997, the film earned $63.7 million at the box office against its $15 million budget and received favorable reviews from critics. Despite this, it remains somewhat underappreciated nearly three decades later. In “Cop Land,” Stallone plays Freddy Heflin, the sheriff of a small town in New Jersey. The town is home to a group of corrupt NYPD officers led by Ray Donlan, played by Keitel. These officers exploit a loophole that allows them to live outside of New York City.
Heflin, who is deaf in one ear, is unable to join the NYPD and looks up to Donlan. However, when Internal Affairs investigator Moe Tilden, portrayed by De Niro, begins to build a case against the corrupt cops, Heflin is initially reluctant to assist him. The plot takes a darker turn when Donlan’s nephew, Officer Murray Babitch, murders two Black teenagers. Donlan orchestrates a cover-up and fakes Babitch’s death. Terrified of his uncle, Babitch seeks Heflin’s help, drawing Stallone’s character into the corrupt cops’ web of deceit.
“Cop Land” showcases the strengths of its leading actors. De Niro, well-known for his roles in crime dramas, plays a character on the right side of the law, which is a refreshing change from his usual roles as gangsters or mob bosses. Stallone, transitioning from a series of comedic roles, received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Heflin. Critics praised Stallone for shedding his typical action-hero persona to deliver a more nuanced and everyday character.
In conclusion, “Cop Land” is a film that brilliantly unites two legendary actors, Sylvester Stallone and Robert De Niro, delivering a solid entry in the neo-noir crime thriller genre. Despite its modest box office performance and the passage of time, it remains a hidden gem, appreciated for its strong performances and compelling storytelling. The film is a testament to the enduring appeal and versatility of its stars, making it a significant entry in the careers of Stallone and De Niro.
