Buddy cop tropes, absurd comedy, and unexpected financial crime — The Other Guys (2010) flips the action-comedy genre on its head with Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg at the center of the chaos. With outrageous stunts, hilarious one-liners, and a surprisingly smart plot, the film has become a cult favorite among comedy lovers.
But how well do you remember the tuna vs. lion speech? Or who really took down the bad guys? Take this 10-question trivia quiz and find out if you’re a peacock ready to fly — or just another paper pusher.
The Other Guys (2010) Trivia Questions & Answers
- Who plays Detective Allen Gamble in The Other Guys?
Correct Answer: Will Ferrell
Will Ferrell stars as Allen Gamble, a mild-mannered forensic accountant turned detective who is more comfortable with spreadsheets than shootouts. His unexpected quirks — including a dark past and a stunning wife — make him one of the film’s most hilarious characters.
- What is Detective Terry Hoitz’s former claim to shame?
Correct Answer: He accidentally shot Derek Jeter
In a flashback, it’s revealed that Terry (played by Mark Wahlberg) once shot New York Yankees star Derek Jeter during a misunderstanding. This incident earned him public ridicule and got him reassigned, a running joke throughout the film.
- Which actor plays Terry Hoitz?
Correct Answer: Mark Wahlberg
Mark Wahlberg brings intensity and frustration to Terry Hoitz, the hot-headed detective constantly baffled by his partner Allen’s awkward behavior. The contrast between Wahlberg’s serious demeanor and Ferrell’s deadpan comedy is what makes their dynamic so effective.
- What type of office crime is the focus of their big case?
Correct Answer: Financial fraud
Beneath all the jokes and car chases lies a surprisingly sharp plot about white-collar crime. The detectives uncover a massive financial fraud scheme orchestrated by corporate bigwigs — parodying real-life Wall Street scandals.
- Who plays the flashy, over-the-top cop Danson?
Correct Answer: Dwayne Johnson
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson plays Detective Danson, one half of the superstar cop duo with Samuel L. Jackson’s Highsmith. Their characters are reckless, arrogant, and beloved by the media — until a hilariously absurd jump from a rooftop abruptly ends their run.
- What ridiculous object does Allen keep on his desk?
Correct Answer: A wooden gun
As punishment for a previous mistake involving his firearm, Allen is issued a wooden gun. It becomes a running gag symbolizing his perceived ineffectiveness and is a hilarious contrast to the action-heavy world around him.
- What is Allen’s surprisingly attractive wife’s name?
Correct Answer: Sheila
Sheila, played by Eva Mendes, is Allen’s loving and beautiful wife — much to Terry’s disbelief. The recurring joke is that Allen treats Sheila indifferently while Terry is constantly amazed she’s married to him at all.
- What is the “lion vs. tuna” speech about?
Correct Answer: An argument about dominance and strategy
Allen delivers an increasingly absurd monologue where he imagines a tuna defeating a lion with strategy, teamwork, and the ability to “construct a breathing apparatus out of kelp.” It’s a perfect example of the film’s nonsensical and hilarious approach to conflict.
- Which financial executive are they investigating?
Correct Answer: David Ershon
David Ershon, played by Steve Coogan, is a shady investment banker involved in a massive embezzlement scheme. His charm and cowardice provide many comedic moments, especially as the detectives begin unraveling the true scope of his crimes.
- What happens to Danson and Highsmith early in the movie?
Correct Answer: They jump off a building and die
In one of the film’s most unexpected moments, Danson and Highsmith chase a suspect, leap off a skyscraper — and die upon impact. Their sudden exit opens the door for Allen and Terry to take center stage, and it’s played completely straight for maximum shock and comedy.
