The concept of reviving a dated and frankly, quite silly 1980s TV show like “21 Jump Street” for a modern movie adaptation might seem utterly baffling. As Nick Offerman’s character aptly points out in the film itself, it’s a remarkably unoriginal idea. The original series, while launching Johnny Depp’s career, wasn’t exactly a cultural phenomenon screaming for a reboot. Yet, against all odds, the 2012 film “21 Jump Street” emerges not just as a competent remake, but as a genuinely brilliant comedy that surpasses expectations.
Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum in 21 Jump Street undercover as high school students
Director duo Phil Lord and Chris Miller, alongside writer Michael Bacall, showcase a clear understanding of the absurdity of the premise. Instead of shying away from it, they embrace the inherent ridiculousness, turning what could have been a disastrous retread into comedic gold. “21 Jump Street” is not just funny; it’s intelligently witty, surprisingly engaging, and even possesses a certain heartwarming charm. It quickly established itself as a high point for comedy in 2012, setting a benchmark for films to follow.
At the heart of “21 Jump Street” is the unlikely friendship between Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum). Their backstory, cleverly established early in the film, is crucial to the movie’s success. In high school, they were polar opposites: Schmidt, the nerdy outcast, and Jenko, the popular jock. It’s only later, at the Police Academy, that they realize their contrasting skills complement each other, forging an unexpected and genuine bond as they help each other through training.
Schmidt and Jenko becoming friends at police academy in 21 Jump Street movie
This focus on a sincere and relatable friendship provides the film with an anchor, allowing it to venture into increasingly outlandish comedic territories without losing its emotional core. The genuine connection between Schmidt and Jenko ensures that even amidst the chaos, the audience remains invested in their journey.
Adding to the comedic brilliance is the film’s portrayal of Schmidt and Jenko as spectacularly inept police officers. Despite their good intentions, their incompetence is a constant source of humor. A drug bust early in the film goes hilariously wrong, leading to their assignment to the resurrected “21 Jump Street” unit. This undercover division, a relic from the 80s, specializes in sending young-looking officers back to high schools. The film wrings every ounce of humor from this setup: placing two utterly incapable cops in charge of an inherently flawed law enforcement strategy.
Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum looking confused in 21 Jump Street undercover operation
Schmidt and Jenko are hilariously out of touch with contemporary teenage culture, struggling to navigate the nuances of modern high school life. Their simple mission – to identify a drug supplier – becomes a series of escalating comedic mishaps. Furthermore, neither is emotionally prepared to relive the trials and tribulations of high school. The film cleverly plays with high school tropes, reversing their original dynamics as Schmidt unexpectedly becomes popular while Jenko finds himself struggling to fit in. This role reversal fuels much of the film’s humor, culminating in a riotously insane and satisfying third act.
Directors Lord and Miller, building on their animation experience with “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs,” demonstrate a remarkable aptitude for live-action comedy. They masterfully blend various comedic styles, creating a vibrant and energetic film. The physical comedy is exceptionally well-executed. The contrast between Hill’s awkwardness and Tatum’s athleticism is inherently funny, but it’s the sharp dialogue and keen observations about teenage life that elevate “21 Jump Street” to comedic greatness. The film’s insightful take on modern high school culture adds a layer of relatability, amplifying the humor for audiences. The action sequences are equally impressive, seamlessly merging comedic timing with genuine action-movie thrills. The second-act car chase, in particular, is a masterclass in comedic action choreography.
Ice Cube as Captain Dickson with Schmidt and Jenko in 21 Jump Street
However, the true strength of “21 Jump Street” lies in the performances of Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum. They are the film’s secret weapon, delivering both laughs and genuine heart in equal measure. Hill’s comedic talent is well-established, but Tatum is the revelation here, proving to be an incredibly gifted comedic actor. His timing and physical comedy are consistently hilarious. It’s hard not to feel that his comedic talents have been underutilized in more dramatic roles. Together, Hill and Tatum possess an undeniable chemistry. Their interactions are both funny and genuinely touching, making the audience root for them despite their repeated failures. This underlying sincerity, amidst the absurdity, is what gives “21 Jump Street” its unexpected depth and makes it a truly great comedy.
Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum posing as undercover cops in 21 Jump Street movie poster
The supporting cast, including a particularly funny Ice Cube as their Captain, adds further to the film’s appeal. The movie is visually stylish, and the soundtrack perfectly complements its lighthearted and irreverent tone. While the film is nearly perfect, there are minor moments where pushing the boundaries further might have been even more rewarding, and a single gag towards the end slightly oversteps. Overall, “21 Jump Street” is a wildly entertaining and rewatchable film. Its success paved the way for a sequel, and rightfully so. While “21 Jump Street” stands strongly on its own, the potential for further comedic adventures with this team is incredibly exciting.
