Police Cops was a hot topic at Ventnor Fringe this year. You’d often walk past a crowd praising its ingenuity, expressing their desire to see it again and, most often, calling it totally hilarious.

Hearing the virtues of such a well-loved show meant going to experience it first-hand was non-negotiable and safe to say, I was not disappointed.

Created by comedy trio Zachary Hunt, Nathan Parkinson and Tom Roe, the production tells the story of Jimmy Johnson (Hunt), a man desperate to make his brother proud and become the best police cop the world has ever seen. This reach for greatness alongside his newfound sidekick (a downtrodden, lonely ex-member of the force) leads the pair into the jaws of a corrupt Mexican drug cartel, fighting for justice, as well as their lives.

Police Cops is consistently brilliant. It’s a masterclass in acting, costume, line-delivery and everything else it seeks to accomplish.

The three actors switch between characters with unbridled ease despite their outfit changes being present on stage with them. If anything, the racks of leather jackets, aprons and police uniforms add to the show’s charming chaos, something which is steadily controlled by such a faultless crew.

Moments within the script should not work, on paper they may appear juvenile or stupid within the given context, however everything just seems to always land right. Perhaps it’s the knowing nod Roe gives to an audience member, or the unscripted laugh Parkinson lets slip when improvising about omelettes. Whatever the formula it’s a success and left every member in the theatre howling and crying with laughter.

It’s evident that the three men are well-versed in their various roles, allowing them to lean on each other when delivering a gag. Some of the most memorable scenes are built around a wandering conversation or a moment of physical comedy, both only possible with a confident team behind you.

This parody stroke loveletter to 80s and 90s cop films may be small scale, but it’s certainly got enough heart to fill thousands of seats and make every single occupant laugh till they can’t anymore. It’s a raucous affair which dials the stupidity up to one hundred yet maintains the heart and soul of what it pays tribute to.

I wish I could witness it all again and I’m jealous of those who have yet to discover it.

Review written by Jessica King