HOW TO BE A COP! In the 2011 YouTube classic "HOW TO BE A COP!", presented by the comedic duo Smosh, viewers are treated to a humorous and satirical take on the life of police officers. The video sets the stage with an over-the-top introduction featuring the character Sgt. Anous, who guides the audience through a series of absurd "steps" on how to be a cop.
Summary of Content
The video begins with Sgt. Anous asserting that there are two kinds of people: criminals and police officers. He then dives into an exaggerated enumeration of what it supposedly takes to serve in law enforcement:
Parking Enforcement: Using humor, Sgt. Anous depicts a traffic stop where a misunderstanding about handicapped parking escalates dramatically.
Problem Solving: The video humorously suggests that resolving issues often involves shooting, further pushing its satirical edge.
Speeding Violations: There's an amusing take on the clichés regarding police and attractive motorists who try to get out of tickets.
Stay Hydrated: A non-serious reminder for officers to drink water, presented in a comically exaggerated way.
Have Fun: This part touches on the lighthearted mischief that can occur among officers, illustrating their relationships with one another.
Law Enforcement: Sgt. Anous enforces jaywalking laws in an absurdly strict manner, resulting in comedic chaos.
Humor and Satire
The video employs dark humor and exaggerated situations to critique certain aspects of law enforcement, including how minor infractions are treated. The use of comedic violence and absurd scenarios is a hallmark of Smosh's style, appealing to viewers' sense of irony while also providing laughs.
Cultural Impact
Since its release, the video has garnered millions of views and has become part of Internet meme culture, as it pokes fun at serious topics in a lighthearted manner. With its humorous content, it provides satire that resonates with many viewers, especially those familiar with law enforcement stereotypes.
Conclusion
Smosh's "HOW TO BE A COP!" is not just a simple comedy sketch; it serves as a commentary on modern policing styles, albeit through a lens of exaggerated humor. As we reflect on this video over a decade later, it's fascinating to see how such content can influence perceptions of authority and community interactions. What are your thoughts on how humor can play a role in discussions about law enforcement? Have you seen other comedies that tackle this subject effectively? Share your insights below!