A mismatched pair of Los Angeles cops, the veteran detective Trey Sellars and the rookie officer Chase Renzi, are assigned to the action-packed television show "Showtime". As they navigate the world of film production, they uncover a real criminal conspiracy that mirrors the show's plot. They must then use their unique policing styles, alongside the show's cast and crew, to stop the criminals before the line between fiction and reality blurs completely.

Showtime received generally negative reviews from critics, with many finding the plot convoluted and the humor lacking. While the chemistry between De Niro and Murphy was sometimes praised, the film struggled to balance its action, comedy, and western elements, ultimately feeling unfocused and uninspired to many.

• The film suffers from a confusing plot that tries to blend too many genres.
• The comedic chemistry between the leads is inconsistent, and the jokes often fall flat.
• While some action sequences are competent, they can't save the overall lackluster execution.

Google audience: Audience reviews indicate a mixed reception. Many found the film to be an amusing distraction, particularly enjoying the performances of Robert De Niro and Eddie Murphy. However, a significant portion of viewers felt the movie was predictable and failed to live up to its potential, with some criticizing the uneven pacing and a lack of genuine laughs.

The film was originally conceived as a vehicle for comedian Dave Chappelle before Eddie Murphy and Robert De Niro were cast.