The film “CHIPS” is an action-driven, dramatic, and personal storytelling that plays with the classical motorcycle cop series to provide a gritty, yet nostalgic twist. The movie is strong in its hard-boiled characterization, especially the opposing teaming of the amateur Jon Baker with the undercover FBI cop Ponch. Their conflicts and the friendship that results bring depth of emotional nucleus that echoes beyond the blood-pumping escapes. The tone is light humorous but at times dark and more intense, which results in making the tone both entertaining and emotional.
The visual effect of the CHIPS is thrilling motorcycle chasing and perfectly planned action scenes that make hearts beat faster. The realistic nature of the high-speed escapades by the picturesque highways in California is provided by the gritty aesthetic of the film and the detail employed during the chase scenes. The acting is good, particularly of the protagonists, who add nuances to the roles most of the time in the chaos. Several twists in the plot are equally intriguing including the discovery of the corrupt police force and personal sacrifices made by the characters making the plot interesting and engaging the viewers. The music and score are used to support the energy of the movie, which is very fast-paced to watch and listen to.
The themes of loyalty, redemption, and the grey morality of the law enforcement that the film dwells upon, were the most appealing to me. Its personal cost of the investigation is very clear and thus it is not a mere action film. Although it tends to go into cliches, the emotional investment and the excellent acting can bring CHIPS above being entertainment. It is a rough but deeply emotional ode that puts the law-and-order and the brotherhood of the police in the middle of the mess, and leaves a permanent mark of strength and honesty through the ups and downs.
