Review of 22 Jump Street (2014) by Quincytheodore — 13 Jun 2014

With wit and self-mockery, 22 Jump Street brings bromance, satirical action scene and a good dose of laughter. It succeeds in avoiding redundancy of a sequel, which the movie itself points out, and brings enjoyable foolhardy yet sufficiently clever humor. Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum is a great couple, half of the jokes are on their expenses. Plenty of romance analogy delivered in staggeringly serious way, while the rest of it is over-the-top comedy. Script is smart, bordering on improvised banter, and it neatly pokes on popular culture.

Commendably, the movie sneers at some of the clichés, even those that it uses. This opens up many opportunities as it practically makes jokes of, and on, itself. Plot follows Jenko (Tatum) and Schmidt (Hill) into a college for the search of another drug. While some scenes might be a bit inflated, it keeps the humor grounded without resorting to forced slapstick. Hill and Tatum have great chemistry together, with tons of relationship jokes, they boast their acting prowess by keeping straight faces on what must be pretty ungraceful scenes.

Screenplay feels fast and tight, scenes don't overstay their welcome as it keeps churning jest at consistent pace. Action sequences are watered down and cynical remarks of those used in stereotypical action flicks. While they may be slightly predictable, the movie keeps these anticipated scenes fresh. Some events are unbelievably cartoon-like, down to the use of visible effect, but it's forgivable considering the movie produces humor literally until the end credit.

22 Jump Street possesses a rich sense of humor that will appeal to mainstream audience while also maintaining the adequate level of sophistication. Despite what it quips in the spirit of self-awareness, this sequel is as good, or even better than its predecessor.