Buddy-Teen Comedy Brilliance

Rating: 9/10 (2 June 2012)

I think we've seen the pioneering of a new sub-genre: a merger between a buddy cop and teen comedy film. Who isn't constantly on the hunt for something different? The filmmakers made it clear that they were keen to establish a gulf between the television series and the feature film; indeed, the film takes no more but the fundamental concept and premise from the series and laces it with almost slapstick, though mature hilarity which makes for one of the comedy spectacles of 2012.
The story is definitely stupid but it's made to be that way. That was the storywriters' intentions, one of which was Jonah Hill himself. It's supposed to be exaggerated and have a silly, immature teen, high school wrongdoing element to it. It was like an 'American Pie' meets crime drama. For those raising their eyebrows, I did mention it was unique. Strange the way I describe it but take my word for it, it works superbly.
The sense of humour is very juvenile and far from sophisticated. Any comedy associated with Jonah Hill means that you would be fooling yourself if you expected more refined laughs. I wouldn't say that this would have broad appeal, not least of all for loyal fanatics of the television show who may get the inch that all Tatum and Hill do is slander the '21 Jump Street' name. Hopefully, Johnny Depp and Peter DeLuise's involvement will prevent that. All the same, it's raunchy, occasionally crude but brilliantly thought out with acting that works.
On the note of acting, we do see some typecasting to some extent: Tatum in his stereotypical dimwitted, jock role and Hill in his overdone 'nerd punching above his weight' type role. They form an unlikely, almost unnatural duo representing the yin to each other's yang. Yet, they really surprise you with their fantastic, humorous chemistry; I wouldn't hesitate in saying that I would eagerly anticipate a follow-up with this pair in the hot seat. It's a credit to Channing Tatum that he really took the initiative and showed greater acting prowess in this clichéd role than we have seen from him. Jonah Hill is his usual self although sporting a new, streamlined look. That doesn't change the fact that he is becoming a comedian I would assume is beginning to attract a loyal fanbase. A special mention also needs to be shouted out to Ice Cube who returns to his element with an array of 'Ice Cube moments' which could only be criticised for brevity.
This film is really a hoot, you'll derive some great hilarity from it. Don't however make the mistake of thinking you are seeing the next 'Lethal Weapon' or 'Rush Hour' as much as a derivative of 'The Other Guys' or 'Starsky and Hutch'. And don't watch it for any sort of intricate crime solving or spectacular action. Do however watch it for some juvenile pleasure.