the other guys wsj crossword

Sandra Almird

2 min read

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02-01-2025

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The Wall Street Journal crossword, known for its challenging clues and sophisticated wordplay, often incorporates pop culture references. One such clue, likely encountered by many solvers, revolves around the comedy film "The Other Guys." Let's delve into how this clue might be presented and what makes it a particularly interesting puzzle element. (Note: Specific clues and answers are not consistently available across all crossword databases, and variations exist. This article will explore common approaches and possibilities.)

Possible Clue Variations & Solutions (inspired by crosswordfiend-style questioning, though not directly quoting them due to the dynamic nature of crossword clues):

Clue Option 1: "Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg comedy duo"

Answer: THE OTHER GUYS

Analysis: This is a straightforward clue directly referencing the film's stars and genre. It's a relatively easy clue for those familiar with the movie. The use of "duo" cleverly hints at the collaborative nature of the film's leads.

Clue Option 2: "Undercover NYPD detectives, onscreen"

Answer: THE OTHER GUYS

Analysis: This clue utilizes the film's plotline. It adds a layer of complexity as it requires solvers to not only know the movie but also remember the protagonists' occupation within the story. This plays on the contrast between the film's comedic elements and the serious nature of police work. Such contrast is a typical element in comedic films.

Clue Option 3: (More challenging): "They weren't the guys, but they got the job done (in a hilarious way)"

Answer: THE OTHER GUYS

Analysis: This is a considerably harder clue, requiring a deeper understanding of the film's premise and its underlying humor. The phrasing "They weren't the guys" subtly contrasts the protagonists with the more celebrated, perhaps more traditionally heroic, police officers often portrayed in media. The addition of "(in a hilarious way)" further guides the solver toward a comedic context.

Beyond the Clue: Adding Value

While solving the crossword clue itself is satisfying, let's expand on the film "The Other Guys" to enrich your understanding:

• The Film's Humor: "The Other Guys" relies on a blend of slapstick, observational humor, and witty dialogue. Understanding this style of comedy helps solvers appreciate the clue's subtle nuances. Think about other films that use similar comedic styles – this can help you approach similar clues in the future.

• Character Dynamics: The contrasting personalities of Will Ferrell's and Mark Wahlberg's characters are central to the film's humor. This dynamic creates many comedic opportunities which a clever crossword clue might subtly allude to.

• Cultural Impact: The film was a box-office success and added to the careers of its stars. Knowing its cultural significance can sometimes be indirectly useful in solving crossword clues related to popular culture.

Conclusion:

Solving a crossword clue like "The Other Guys" is not merely about finding the answer; it's about engaging with the clue's construction, understanding the underlying references, and appreciating the interplay between film and language. By examining the clue’s different possible variations and exploring the film's context, we can enhance our crossword-solving skills and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of both filmmaking and puzzle creation. Remember to always give credit to the original creators of the crossword puzzle. In this case, we're referring to the work of the Wall Street Journal's crossword constructors, though the specific constructor for any given puzzle would need to be confirmed.