21 Jump Street (2012) - Phil Lord & Chris Miller

Going into 21 Jump Street I assumed what I usually do when going to see a very hyped comedy- it would be a let down.  Much to my delight, 21 Jump Street is as good as I was
lead to believe if not better.   With comedies I tend to find that a few jokes carry the film but with this film there really wasn't one joke that stood out from the other.   From start to finish, 21 Jump Street is a laugh riot that feels very streamlined, giving an immersive action comedy experience that delivers on pretty much everything it promises.  The creative forces behind this film really did their homework and it shows.  This does not refer to just the writing either, as there are quite a few scenes where the cinematography and/or editing reference other films of the genre in unique and fun ways.  21 Jump Street is loaded with homages, satire and parody of the action-comedy genre, and it's done in way that is both very intelligent and hysterical.  It's a very self aware feature and actually does a pretty great job at capturing the social landscape of high school.  I will say that I never found Channing Tatum to be a particularly gifted actor, but he surprised me in this film, showing a natural ability with comedic timing.  If I had a complaint it would revolve around some of the more dramatic plot points that just feel unnecessary to the film.   Honestly I am just nitpicking in this criticism as 21 Jump Street is easily one of the best studio comedies of 2012.  
8.25/10

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