Downtown (released on Jan. 12, 1990) is a “fish-out-of-water” buddy cop comedy that serves as a high-stakes tour through the gritty side of Philadelphia. Directed by Richard Benjamin, the film leans into the sharp contrast between suburban naivety and inner-city street smarts. It arrived during the peak of the action-comedy era, utilizing the chemistry between Anthony Edwards and Forest Whitaker to explore themes of race, class, and police corruption with a blend of slapstick energy and genuine tension.
Alex Kearney (Edwards) is a white, suburban police officer who enjoys the quiet life of a wealthy patrol zone, where his biggest challenges are speeding tickets and lost pets.
However, after he pulls over an influential businessman for a minor infraction, Alex finds himself politically reassigned to the “Downtown” precinct—the most dangerous, crime-ridden district in Philadelphia.
He is immediately a target for ridicule, both from the local criminals and his cynical new colleagues.
Alex is partnered with Dennis Curren (Whitaker), a hard-edged, no-nonsense detective who has seen it all and has little patience for Alex’s “by-the-book” mentality.
Their partnership starts on rocky ground, but when Alex’s best friend from his old precinct is murdered while investigating a stolen car ring, the two must set aside their differences.
Their investigation leads them into a vast conspiracy involving a local kingpin and high-level corruption within the force.
Along the way, Alex finds a romantic spark with Lori (Penelope Ann Miller), while the duo navigates a gauntlet of eccentric characters and dangerous snitches.
As Alex loses his suburban polish and begins to understand the harsh realities of Dennis’s world, they must engage in a series of high-speed chases and shootouts to bring the killers to justice and prove that Alex has what it takes to survive on the streets of Downtown.
Joe Pantoliano and Art Evans round out the supporting cast.
Forest Whitaker in Downtown (Photo/20th Century Fox)
Reception for Downtown
Downtown grossed $821,626 on its opening weekend, finishing in 16th place at the box office.
The film would gross a disappointing $2.3 million in its theatrical run.
Legacy
Downtown is remembered for showcasing a different side of Edwards before his iconic role on ER, and for highlighting Whitaker’s ability to command an action film with both physical presence and gravitas.
The film’s soundtrack and visual style remain a perfect time capsule of Philadelphia in the late 20th century.
While it followed the established “buddy cop” formula, the movie is celebrated by genre fans for its sharp dialogue and the genuine, growing respect depicted between its leads.
