Well, the existence of different types of cops in a department is a real - life element. Just like in 'The Other Guys', there are those who are more media - friendly and those who are more behind - the - scenes. Also, the paperwork and bureaucracy that the characters face is very much a part of real - life police work. The movie uses these real - life aspects as a foundation and then builds its comical story on top of it. For example, the way they have to follow protocols even when they seem a bit silly is a nod to real - world police procedures.
The real - life element of competition among cops for recognition is evident in 'The Other Guys'. In any police force, there are those who want to be the heroes and those who are just doing their jobs. The movie also shows how real - life investigations might not be as straightforward as we think. The characters in the movie often have to piece together small clues and deal with red tape, which is a lot like what real - life police officers experience when trying to solve a case.