What Is National Security About?
The premise of National Security in 296 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a sun‑bleached Los Angeles where the line between order and chaos is as thin as a traffic light, the city’s police force grapples with cases that feel as unpredictable as the traffic jams that clog its streets. The atmosphere hums with a blend of gritty realism and off‑beat humor, inviting viewers to wonder whether the next twist will be a punchline or a perilous turn.
At the heart of the story is Hank Rafferty, a hardened LAPD veteran whose stoic exterior hides a lingering memory of a partner’s untimely death. His methodical approach to policing is constantly tested by the unpredictable rhythm of the city and the lingering shadows of past trauma. Opposite him stands Earl Montgomery, a once‑hopeful academy recruit whose ambition was shattered by a catastrophic mishap. His swagger, sharp wit, and lingering prejudice clash spectacularly with Hank’s measured demeanor, setting the stage for an uneasy alliance that teeters between comedy and conflict.
When circumstance forces these two disparate personalities into the same precinct, their interactions become a volatile mix of rivalry, reluctant respect, and reluctant camaraderie. Their banter echoes through hallway corridors, while their conflicting worldviews keep both the audience and their superiors guessing which of them will step up—or step on each other’s toes. Supporting figures, like a former flame who inadvertently drifts back into the mix, add layers of personal stakes that further blur the line between duty and desire.
Against this backdrop, the pair find themselves drawn into a murky episode that threatens to upend their fragile partnership. The stakes hint at larger forces at play, promising a blend of high‑energy action and razor‑sharp comedy that will test their resolve, loyalty, and the very notion of what it means to serve and protect in a city that never sleeps.
What Happens in National Security?
The complete story of National Security, from the first scene to the last, in 491 words (about 2 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 4 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Two LAPD officers, Hank Rafferty and Charlie Reed, dive into the investigation of a warehouse robbery that takes a tragic turn when Charlie is murdered by one of the thieves, leaving Hank with a vivid memory of the tattoo on the killer’s arm. Concurrently, Earl Montgomery is desperate to fulfill his ambition of becoming a police officer, but his dreams are dashed after a catastrophic mishap during the police academy leads to his expulsion. Earl’s arrogance and racial biases fuel his disdain for others, and one reckless incident leads to chaos when he inadvertently jumps from his car to cuff an instructor, igniting an explosion that seals his fate.
As Hank gets warned by Detective Frank McDuff to step back from the investigation—due to the sensitive nature of the stolen $800K in computer chips—he encounters Earl in a comical yet charged situation. Earl tries to access Hank’s locked car, leading to a confrontation that escalates, with Earl attempting to provoke Hank with racial slurs. The situation spirals out of control when a bumblebee subjects Earl, who is allergic, into a state of panic. Hank attempts to assist Earl against the bee, yet this culminates in a misunderstanding that gets Hank charged with assault, resulting in a six-month prison sentence where he spends most of the time in solitary confinement.
Upon his release, Hank takes a security guard position and is determined to uncover the truth behind Charlie’s murder. An alert leads him to a soda warehouse, where he finds Earl Montgomery again, who is neglecting his duties at the same security company. Their encounter reignites their chaotic relationship as they become embroiled in a gunfight with the thieves. As they piece together clues, they discover that their heist is linked to a larger crime involving stolen aerospace material cleverly disguised as beer kegs, further complicating their predicament.
The duo’s adventures take them on a wild ride that features unauthorized chases, mistaken identities, and sudden confrontations with the law, only to find themselves at odds with both the thieves and the police. Throughout this tumultuous journey, they encounter Denise, Hank’s ex-girlfriend, who becomes unwittingly involved, and provides comedic tension as Earl resorts to flirting while Hank tries to mend the fractures of their past relationship.
The climax unfolds as Hank and Earl track down the criminal mastermind, Nash, whose ties to the dirty cop McDuff threaten their lives. A daring rescue operation ensues, filled with explosive confrontations where loyalties are tested and the stakes soar. With Hank managing to avenge Charlie’s death in a dramatic showdown, both he and Earl emerge as unlikely heroes.
Fast forward six months after their triumph, and the duo stands proud as they’re reinstated in the LAPD. Now partners, the pair confront another chaotic scenario reminiscent of their first meeting, proving that their journey as law enforcement officers is just beginning—leading to a finale with comedic undertones as Earl almost lets another criminal slip through his fingers.
National Security Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Warehouse Robbery” to “Reinstatement as Police Officers”. 8 events name a place, across 5 locations.
- 1
Warehouse Robbery
The movie begins with LAPD officers Hank Rafferty and Charlie Reed diving into the investigation of a significant warehouse robbery. The scene sets the tone for a tragic turn of events that will forever alter their lives.
Where:Warehouse
- 2
Charlie's Murder
During the investigation, Charlie is brutally murdered by one of the thieves. This incident leaves Hank traumatized and with a haunting memory of the killer's tattoo, driving him to seek justice.
Where:Warehouse
- 3
Earl's Expulsion
Meanwhile, Earl Montgomery's ambition to become a police officer hits a wall when a catastrophic blunder leads to his dismissal from the police academy. His overconfidence and racial biases contribute to this disastrous outcome.
Where:Police Academy
- 4
Explosive Incident
During a training exercise, Earl attempts to cuff an instructor, which backfires spectacularly, triggering an explosion. This reckless act seals his fate, emphasizing his need for personal growth.
Where:Police Academy
- 5
Detective Warning
Hank receives a warning from Detective Frank McDuff, advising him to back off from the sensitive investigation over the stolen $800K in computer chips. This highlights the seriousness of the crime and the danger involved.
Where:LAPD
- 6
Confrontation with Earl
Hank encounters Earl in a humorous yet tense situation where Earl attempts to access Hank's locked car. Their confrontation escalates further as Earl provokes Hank with racial slurs, showcasing their chaotic dynamic.
- 7
Bumblebee Incident
A panic-inducing bumblebee encounter ensues for Earl, who is allergic. Hank’s attempt to help goes awry, leading to Hank being charged with assault and sentenced to six months in prison.
- 8
Hank’s Prison Sentence
Hank spends a considerable amount of his six-month prison sentence in solitary confinement. This time intensifies his resolve to find justice for Charlie’s murder upon his release.
Where:Prison
- 9
Meeting Earl Again
After his release, Hank takes a job as a security guard, where he unexpectedly runs into Earl. Their reunion is fraught with tension, leading them back into a spiraling series of chaotic events.
Where:Soda Warehouse
- 10
Gunfight with Thieves
Hank and Earl find themselves in a shootout with the same thieves responsible for Charlie's death. This harrowing encounter is pivotal as they confront their fears and work together to survive.
Show the other 5 events of National Security Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Discovery of Aerospace Crime
As Hank and Earl piece together clues, they uncover a larger crime involving stolen aerospace materials. This complicates their investigation and adds urgency to their efforts in bringing the criminals to justice.
- 12
Denise's Involvement
They encounter Denise, Hank’s ex-girlfriend, who becomes unwittingly involved in their dangerous escapades. Earl tries to flirt with her, adding a comedic element to their otherwise tense situation.
- 13
Confronting Nash
Hank and Earl track down the criminal mastermind, Nash, who has ties with the corrupt Detective McDuff. The confrontation is fraught with danger, testing their bravery and commitment to justice.
- 14
Final Showdown
In a dramatic climax, Hank avenges Charlie's death during a fierce showdown against Nash and his crew. Their victory solidifies their bond and showcases their growth as partners.
- 15
Reinstatement as Police Officers
Six months later, Hank and Earl are proud to be reinstated in the LAPD. Their partnership is tested again in a chaotic situation that recalls their tumultuous beginnings, hinting at future adventures to come.
Where:LAPD
Who Are the Main Characters in National Security?
3 characters, among them Hank Rafferty (Steve Zahn), Earl Montgomery (Martin Lawrence) and Detective Frank McDuff (Colm Feore): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
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Hank Rafferty (Steve Zahn)
Played by Steve Zahn
Hank Rafferty is a determined LAPD officer haunted by the murder of his partner. His resilience propels him to uncover the truth behind the crimes he encounters, showcasing bravery amid personal loss.
- 🤷♂️ Determination
- 🕵️♂️ Investigator
-
Earl Montgomery (Martin Lawrence)
Played by Martin Lawrence
Earl Montgomery is an ambitious yet reckless individual whose desire to become a police officer leads to mishaps. His arrogance often gets him into trouble, but his character grows as the story unfolds.
- 🙃 Arrogance
- 😂 Chaos
-
Detective Frank McDuff (Colm Feore)
Played by Colm Feore
Detective Frank McDuff is a seasoned officer who enforces the law with a strict demeanor. He plays a pivotal role in warning Hank, representing the complications within law enforcement.
- 👮 Authority
- ⚖️ Strict
Where and When Is National Security Set?
National Security is set in Los Angeles. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The film is set in a contemporary period, reflecting modern law enforcement and societal issues. It explores themes relevant to the time, including racial tensions and the challenges faced by police officers.
Where
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis known for its entertainment industry and vibrant culture. The city serves as a backdrop for law enforcement challenges, with its bustling streets often becoming the scene of chaos and comedy.
- 🌆 City
- 🚓 Law Enforcement
What Are the Themes of National Security?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Crime & Justice, Comedy and Friendship.
-
01
Crime & Justice
The movie delves into the world of crime, highlighting the thin line between law and disorder. It examines the challenges law enforcement faces with injustice, corruption, and the fight against organized crime.
-
02
Comedy
Amidst the serious undertones of crime, the film provides comedic moments through the interactions and misadventures of the main characters. Their chaotic relationship serves as a source of humor, making light of tense situations.
-
03
Friendship
The bond between Hank and Earl evolves from antagonism to partnership as they navigate their challenges. Their friendship showcases growth, understanding, and the power of teamwork in overcoming adversity.
What Kind of Film Is National Security?
Light in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Light
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A fast-paced, action-comedy that follows two mismatched security guards turned cops on a chaotic and humorous journey of crime-solving, filled with chases, misunderstandings, and explosive banter.
- energetic
- chaotic
- comedic
- action-packed
- buddy camaraderie
- lighthearted
- buddy cops
- crime investigation
- police corruption
- revenge
Content notes: death of a partner, gun violence, police brutality, imprisonment.
Quiz
How well do you remember National Security? Test yourself on the story.
Where to Watch National Security
Stream it on Netflix, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
Stream 1
Netflix 
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