Observe and Report

The plot centers on Ronnie Barnhardt, a volatile mall security guard determined to catch a serial flasher terrorizing the mall's parking lot. He is highly motivated by his desire to earn a badge and join the local police academy. His delusions of grandeur lead him into violent, comical clashes with actual law enforcement.

Seth Rogen stars as the bipolar and deeply troubled protagonist, Ronnie Barnhardt. The film also features Anna Faris as a cosmetics counter employee and Ray Liotta as a real police detective who clashes with Rogen's character. It was directed by Jody Hill, who co-created the hit show Eastbound & Down.

Observe and Report is a highly dark, transgressive crime comedy that blends elements of psychological drama with uncomfortable humor. Unlike standard slapstick comedies, the film explores heavy themes like mental illness, substance abuse, and unchecked violence. It received mixed reviews due to its jarring tonal shifts and deeply unsympathetic lead character.

The film was distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and released in theaters in April 2009. It debuted around the same time as Paul Blart: Mall Cop, leading many audiences to draw unfavorable comparisons between the two mall security-themed movies. The movie was produced on a budget of roughly $18 million.