21 Jump Street

This is my least kind of film to review. It's just hard to review a good comedy. I really don't want to give any of the jokes and gags away, and all I can do then is praise the stuff nobody cares about. Well, I will also mention that 21 Jump Street is the best 80s reboot ever made, and that it's the funniest movie since Hot Tub Time Machine. Actually, this is easier than I thought. Let's talk about a hilarious movie, shall we? In high school, the nerdy Morton Schmidt (Jonah Hill) was constantly tormented by popular jock Greg Jenko (Channing Tatum). By coincidence the two end up at police academy together, and bond over helping each other with their weaknesses. After failing to read the Miranda Rights to their first perp, Schmidt and Jenko are transferred to the 21 Jump Street program. Because of their youthful looks, the two are placed undercover at a local high school to take down the supplier of a dangerous new drug. When Schmidt becomes popular with the new Hipster ruling clique, the roles are reversed and hijinks ensue. As I have mentioned in the past, the best adaptations keep the spirit of the source material while doing their own thing. They tell their own stories in an established universe, if you will. Luckily for this film, the spirit of the original 21 Jump Street rests in the basic concept of the show. The writers of this movie know that, and they have turned that concept into a raunchy, violent, and profane comedy that is very, very funny. 21 Jump Street is very well made. The acting, writing, and direction all manage to keep the film fresh in each new scene. I was really surprised. When you consider the individual elements of 21 Jump Street, it really is a surprise that the movie is so funny. First, Channing Tatum is the star, and his track record isn't so great. But, he's hilarious here. Second, it's an 80s reboot/remake, and those suck. But as I said, this is the first really good one. Third, the trailers weren't great. But, it turns out it's way smarter than a dumb stoner comedy. There needs to be a serious improvement in marketing this year. First John Carter got totally shafted, then 21 Jump Street gives the wrong impression. Come on guys. My first R-rated movie was Caddyshack. Not only was it a classic, brilliant comedy, but it was a great childhood experience. I'm glad there are still movies like that. 21 Jump Street made me feel like a kid watching the funniest thing ever. Sure it has an R-rating, but anybody can enjoy it. That isn't often scene in our world of ultra political-correctness. Go see 21 Jump Street, it's a ton of fun.