Stallone's understated performance was praised by critics and he received the Best Actor award at the Stockholm International Film Festival. "Cop Land" was also screened at the 54th Venice Film Festival in the Midnight line-up. Earlier in May 1997, the film was accepted into the main competition at the Cannes Film Festival, but Miramax declined the invitation due to re-shoots that were needed for the film, including footage of Stallone 40 pounds heavier.