Review of 21 Jump Street (2012) by Wayne K — 22 Nov 2017

Proving that Channing Tatum could handle a comedy film, and that Jonah Hill could be less annoying in one than he was in Superbad, 21 Jump Street unites the 2 actors for a fast-paced, joke-heavy satire on the cop and teen movie genres.

The pair have great chemistry, likely a result of being close friends in real life, and help to elevate what could easily have been a serious of cheap, throwaway gags. Unfortunately, while its humour usually hits the right notes, and is borne of wit and excellent timing, much of the time it goes for cheap gags and repetitive crudity, and it's never sure whether to subvert the clichés of the genre or embrace them, making a mockery of some and yet relying heavily on others.

So you'll have 2 damaged vehicles which would, in similar films, explode for seemingly no reason. That's funny. But then you have groanworthy tropes such as the 3rd act separation and the angry boss who fires the heroes, only to take them back after they crack the case.

But despite having its cake and eating it, I'd still highly recommend it, since it made me laugh harder and more often than I expected, and I felt very glad to have seen it. Not for those of delicate sensibilities, but a must-see for fans of the 2 leads, and those who like their comedies fast and funny.