21 Jump Street - 3 smiles

Who would have guessed that a remake of a 80s TV show and the pairing of the unlikely duo of Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum would result in an enjoyable movie. But that’s what you get with “21 Jump Street,” a self-aware goofy comedy. How self-aware? Early in the film, a surly police captain played by Ice Cube tells two new recruits that the force has resurrected a defunct program from 30 years ago that sent undercover cops into high schools. ‘It’s about recycling [stuff] from the past and expecting everyone not to notice,’ he says sourly. Schmidt (Hill) and Jenko (Tatum) are bumbling nerd and good-looking dullard, respectively, who were enemies in high school but have become best buds since going through the police academy together. When they are assigned to a high school to bust a drug ring, each seizes the opportunity, Schmidt to heal four years of rejection and Jenko to relive his past glory. What results is a role-reversal comedy full of jokes and sight gags when Jenko, instead of getting the ‘jock’ schedule, is enrolled in AP Chemistry and Schmidt ends up in drama.

Co-written and produced by Jonah Hill, it’s clear the “21 Jump Street” has obvious affection for teen genres and for teenagers. And although this movie is supposed to be an action-comedy with car chases and gun fights (which it does have), the movie works best as a commentary on the always baffling rules of youth culture and the odd-couple chemistry between Hill and Tatum. And Tatum is quite funny in a role that focuses on more than his pecs. Plus, Johnny Depp, who starred in the original TV show, has a cameo. Although “21 Jump Street” does have stupid comedy moments, it also has a genuine heart. However, it’s better if you see it with low expectations. Then you’ll be surprised like I was. 3/16/12