7/10

July 12, 2014

22 Jump Street is definitely one of those sequels where they decided let’s just use the same formula from the first film, but doing so unlike some other recent franchises (not to name any names, but Transformers and The Hangover) was actually a pretty good choice. I didn’t find myself busting out laughing as much as the first movie, but I think that is mostly because the shock factor wasn’t as high in the sequel. Small issues aside, 22 Jump Street still has a lot of funny scenes and the chemistry between the actors involved are what make it stand out in the comedy genre.

In the sequel, Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum) are sent to a local college to go undercover to investigate and stop a new dangerous drug from going nationwide/global. The high school operation was such a success that the police force decides this operation would be an excellent fit for them. The bro-mance borderline homo-erotic chemistry between Hill and Tatum proves to still be pretty hilarious, and they share the screen well together. Personally, I think Tatum’s character in both films is one of his best, if not best, roles to date. Captain Dickson (Ice Cube) has a bigger part in the sequel, is funnier, and has some truly hilarious scenes. The movie’s larger budget over its predecessor is pretty apparent throughout, which doesn’t always add to the hilarity, but most the time it does. Namely, a car chase involving a Lamborghini and the two stars dangling from a helicopter.

If you enjoyed 21 Jump Street, I’m sure you will also enjoy the sequel. It shares many good similarities and still has plenty of laughs to offer. As far as comedies go, this is one I recommend watching at least once.