Despite its ominous sounding title, "In Too Deep" never really goes any deeper than surface level.

In its way, this fact-based cop thriller is an admirable attempt at making an urban "Serpico" or "Donnie Brasco." But while good casting promises big things, a ham-fisted and cliched script and lackluster direction undermine the performers.

Also, the material feels surprisingly exploitative in places, as if scenes were constructed to pump up the action and downplay the story elements. And excessive profanity, violent content and a thumping rap soundtrack certainly add heft to that argument.

In any case, it's definitely a disappointing starring debut for Omar Epps, who has been good in several co-starring roles, including television's "ER." He stars here as Jeffrey Cole, a talented undercover detective.

Fresh out of the police academy, he quickly talks his way into a prized but dangerous assignment, namely infiltrating Cleveland's biggest urban drug operations. After busting some small-time operations, it's time to go after a much bigger target: local crime lord Dwayne "God" Gittens (LL Cool J).

However, after spending time in "deep cover" with the affable drug dealer, Jeff is unable to distinguish between his real life and his manufactured identity of fast-talking J. Reid — a fact that's obvious to his girlfriend (Nia Long) and to his immediate superior (Stanley Tucci).

The true story the film is based upon probably would have made for an interesting movie. Unfortunately, the filmmakers (director Michael Rymer and a pair of screenwriters) have turned it into a routine Hollywood thriller, despite good performances from the leads.

However, credit both Epps and LL Cool J for trying to make their scenes work, and for trying to elevate the material. And the always dependable Tucci does manage to bring some class to the production.

"In Too Deep" is rated R for considerable profanity, violent beatings and gunplay, use of racial epithets and ethnic slurs, simulated drug use (marijuana and cocaine), use of crude sexual slang, female nudity, simulated sex, gore and a scene depicting torture.