So how is it that one of this year's most anticipated sequels is doing so well? The answer is simple. You do exactly the same thing you did the first time.
'It's literally the same as last time.'
Image courtesy of the Sony Pictures
Well why wouldn't you? It's a winning formula that doesn't fail to deliver the second time around. With meta-jokes, puns and characters that prove opposites attract, 22 Jump Street is the must-see movie of the month.
Image courtesy of the Sony Pictures Website
Whether you see it stag or see it with friends you're sure to enjoy the comedy onslaught of Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum as they prove sequels really can be better than the first. For the most part it's quick and to the point. Not dwelling on drawn out scenes and exhausting frat jokes it's refreshing to see a movie that realises just what it is; a sequel. It not only takes this on board but it embraces it like an open college text book. It upsets the conventions of traditional buddy cop movies and franchises, a route the movie needed to take if it wanted to survive the 'sequel ridicule,' and produce an interesting story line.
As the story unravels you become more and more obsessed with trying to pick who the baddie is. The writers do a good job of keeping the identity a secret and the reveal is entertaining and surprising. I highly recommend staying for the credits as they are hilarious and it's hopefully a glimpse of what we're in store for next time; if there is a next time.
Image courtesy of the Sony Pictures Website
Just for some stats: 22 Jump Street opened with an estimated $60 million, almost twice the debut of 21 Jump Street. It's also the best-ever opening weekend for stars Channing Tatum, Jonah Hill and Ice Cube. A live-action comedy hasn't opened this well since 2011's The Hangover Part II with $85.9 million.
IMDB rates it 7.9. I rate it a solid 8. So go see it for yourself but make sure you pee before you sit down 'cause you won't want to miss a minute of it.
