A sequel that is greater than the original - quite uncommon

Rating: 10/10 (23 June 2014)

When I saw that this film was announced, I had the same mixed feelings as I always do when a sequel to a film I really loved is announced. Mixed feelings of excitement (as the original film was excellent) and fear (that the sequel will disappoint). 21 Jump Street I found was an excellent film - very funny and showcased marvellous chemistry between a pair of actors that previously I certainly would have never imagined would fit together in a film. So when 22 Jump Street came out, naturally I experienced these same emotions. It's great that Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum are reuniting as Officer Schmidt (alias Doug) and Officer Jenko (alias Brad) - but surely the new film couldn't improve on the original?
I am delighted to announce that I was completely wrong. 22 Jump Street simply improves the fantastic chemistry between Hill and Tatum. The brilliantly awkward moments the two characters find themselves are somehow even more awkward than the ones experienced in 21 Jump Street, whilst still offering a strong story to boot. In my opinion, the supporting characters in this film were generally stronger and offered more comical lines, so there is less over-emphasis on Hill and Tatum. Sceptics may suggest that the sequel is simply the original film set in a college rather than a high school. This is not the case at all - with just as many twists as the original that shape the plot in unexpected ways, it is just wrong to claim that the films are the same story in a different setting.
No film is perfect and 22 Jump Street is no exception, but the problems are few and far between. For example, as is often the case with films of this genre, some of the 'solutions' to problems Schmidt and Jenko arrive at are rather far-fetched, more so than 21 Jump Street. In all honesty though, I can't fault the film for much else, and off the top of my head, I can find no more issues with the film. If you enjoyed 21 Jump Street, and are worried the sequel will disappoint, don't worry. You will love 22 Jump Street, I guarantee it.