Introduction
This article explores various movies like 21 Jump Street. The original film, “21 Jump Street,” is not just a story about two cops going undercover in high school; it is a narrative filled with hilarious self-aware humor and high-energy action. The plot focuses on an unconventional partnership that develops between two former high school rivals and demonstrates their journey from underachieving officers to formidable partners. If you are looking for movies like 21 Jump Street, you have reached the right place.
In this discussion, we will be talking about 15 epic movies like 21 Jump Street. To discover the best and most engaging movie for you, stay connected and read the whole detailed article. You are sure to enjoy these interesting movies like 21 Jump Street.
What Makes “21 Jump Street” So Magical?
The Unlikely Friendship Theme
The entire story of “21 Jump Street” focuses on the powerful bond that develops between two main characters, Schmidt and Jenko, who were supposed to be enemies from high school. This particular aspect of the plot is what makes the story feel so unique and epic, providing a much more entertaining experience for movie lovers. They were on opposite ends of the social hierarchy—Jenko was a popular jock while Schmidt was a nerd—but they become partners and best friends as adults on the police force. The film’s core humor comes from their contrasting personalities, with Schmidt’s awkwardness and Jenko’s charm creating a dynamic that drives the story’s depth and comedy. This dynamic partnership is a key element that makes the movie so special.
Exaggerated Action & High-Stakes Comedy
Throughout the film, the most striking features are undoubtedly the exaggerated action and seamless blend of high-stakes comedy. This level of cinematic excellence allows the movie to connect deeply with fans of both genres. The action sequences, in particular, are crafted to serve the comedy, such as a freeway chase where the characters expect things to explode, but they don’t, until a truck full of chickens unexpectedly does. The creative work done by the directors is incredibly impressive, and this visual foundation is a major reason the film became so popular. Viewers feel the adrenaline of the chase while laughing at the absurdity of the situation.
A Hilarious Coming-of-Age Story
The narrative at the heart of the film “21 Jump Street” serves as a compelling and hilarious example of a coming-of-age story. The entire plot is meticulously crafted around the personal evolution of its central characters, Schmidt and Jenko, as they navigate the challenges of returning to high school. This experience forces them to confront the insecurities and problems they thought they had left behind as teenagers. When we are first introduced to them as officers, they are underachieving and struggling to prove their worth. However, their undercover assignment allows them to experience a role reversal of their high school days—Jenko falls in with the nerds while Schmidt becomes popular. Their success comes from proving that their unique ability to work together, despite their differences, was the exact quality they needed all along to solve the case. We will see this theme of finding strength in uniqueness as we look further in this article at other movies like 21 Jump Street.
action and seamless blend of high-stakes comedy. This level of cinematic excellence allows the movie to connect deeply with fans of both genres. The action sequences, in particular, are crafted to serve the comedy, such as a freeway chase where the characters expect things to explode, but they don’t, until a truck full of chickens unexpectedly does. The creative work done by the directors is incredibly impressive, and this visual foundation is a major reason the film became so popular. Viewers feel the adrenaline of the chase while laughing at the absurdity of the situation.
High-Energy Action and Pacing
While “21 Jump Street” is widely celebrated for its comedic depth, it is equally deserving of praise as one of the best action stories in modern comedy. The film masterfully balances witty dialogue with high-energy spectacle. The chase sequences, in particular, are an unbelievable and breathtaking creation that provides a significant thrill for the audience; this is undoubtedly one of the core reasons for the film’s immense popularity. The sense of action and exhilarating speed is crafted so effectively that viewers feel as if they are soaring through the skies right alongside the main characters. A key creative choice that makes the film stand out is its ability to use action to aid the comedy rather than interrupt it, making every sequence feel like an elaborate joke. The result is high-stakes action and exceptionally exciting scenes that captivate the audience.
Top Picks: The Best Movies Like 21 Jump Street
Superbad
The movie Superbad shares many remarkable similarities with “21 Jump Street,” making it a great choice for fans of the film. Both films were co-written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg and feature a coming-of-age story about friendship that is centered around a specific goal. “Superbad” uses a raunchy comedy as a setup for a deeper, more emotional story about two best friends navigating the end of high school and the beginning of their lives apart.
The story follows two inseparable best friends, Seth and Evan, and their nerdy friend, McLovin, during the last weeks of high school. Their quest to score enough alcohol for a gigantic house party leads them on a long, chaotic day that tests their friendship and forces them to confront their fears about adulthood. This film is a definitive modern classic that helped revitalize the R-rated teen comedy genre.
You can find “Superbad” available for streaming on various platforms, including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO Max. It is also available for rent or purchase on other digital storefronts.
The Other Guys
The film titled The Other Guys is another fantastic movie that provides stunning action and some of the most exciting scenes in the genre. Similar to “21 Jump Street,” this movie also features two mismatched cops who are underestimated by their peers and must prove themselves. The dynamic between the characters, with one being an overzealous hothead and the other a mild-mannered desk cop, is a core reason for the comparison.
The central plot follows two NYPD detectives, Allen Gamble and Terry Hoitz, who are relegated to desk duty and are not taken seriously by their fellow officers. They get a chance to prove themselves when a seemingly minor case turns out to be a huge deal, leading them to a high-stakes investigation that they are completely unprepared for. Their bumbling and hilarious attempt to solve the case leads to unexpected twists and high-stakes action.
“The Other Guys” is available for streaming on JioTV and can also be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and other digital platforms.
The Nice Guys
The film titled The Nice Guys tells the memorable story of a profound friendship between a private eye and a hired enforcer. The central conflict of the film strongly mirrors the themes found in movies like 21 Jump Street, as the two characters are “literally the two worst people that we could think of” but their partnership is fun and engaging. The movie beautifully explores the powerful idea that a personal bond of friendship is far more important than their individual shortcomings.
Set in 1977 Los Angeles, the story follows private eye Holland March and enforcer Jackson Healy, who are investigating the disappearance of a teenage girl. Their initial antagonism gives way to a reluctant partnership as they uncover a conspiracy involving a pornography and investigative journalism film. Their journey is filled with absurd and dangerous situations, forcing them to work together and rely on each other to survive.
This film is a must-watch for its witty dialogue, brilliant chemistry, and unique comedic tone. “The Nice Guys” is available on JioTV, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV for rent or purchase.
The Heat
The film The Heat is yet another celebrated buddy cop comedy from the 2010s starring Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. The central plot revolves around the deep conflict between two mismatched cops who are forced to work together. This is very similar to the dynamic in “21 Jump Street,” where two polar opposites must overcome their differences to succeed. The film also delivers a perfect blend of genuine heart, well-timed humor, and thrilling action, which is all woven together with a powerful emotional touch that resonates with the audience.
The story follows an arrogant and meticulous FBI agent, Sarah Ashburn, who is forced to partner with a foul-mouthed, hot-tempered Boston detective, Shannon Mullins. They must work together to capture a drug lord, but their clashing personalities create a series of hilarious and chaotic situations. The movie is a classic example of how a buddy cop formula can be redefined with new and interesting character dynamics.
You can find “The Heat” available for streaming on Disney+ and other platforms.
Rush Hour
The widely famous Rush Hour shares many strong similarities with movies like 21 Jump Street. A key reason for this is that the film introduces us to an unlikely pairing of a Hong Kong detective and an LAPD detective who must come together to rescue a kidnapped girl. Their clashing cultures and personalities create the core comedic tension of the film, as they try to navigate their partnership and solve the case.
The story follows a loyal and dedicated Hong Kong inspector, played by Jackie Chan, who is forced to partner with a brash LAPD detective, played by Chris Tucker. Their difficult mission is to rescue the kidnapped daughter of the Chinese Consul, which adds a layer of high-stakes action to the film. Much like in movies like 21 Jump Street, the humor comes from the two leads trying to navigate their partnership and solve the case.
“Rush Hour” is available to stream on Prime Video and can be rented or purchased on other digital platforms.
Ride Along
Another very similar movie, titled Ride Along, can be considered a direct parallel to the story of “21 Jump Street”. This film centers on a fast-talking security guard who has to prove his worth to his girlfriend’s brother, a veteran cop, by going on a 24-hour patrol with him. The dynamic between the two characters is reminiscent of the buddy cop genre, and the film features plenty of action and comedy.
The story follows Ben Barber, a security guard, who joins his girlfriend’s brother, the hot-tempered cop James Payton, on a patrol in Atlanta. James designs the ride-along to be as difficult as possible to test Ben’s mettle, but an unexpected turn of events leads them into a real-life crime case involving a notorious arms dealer. This film is a great choice for fans who enjoy the blend of action and comedy in movies like 21 Jump Street.
You can watch “Ride Along” on Peacock and can also be found on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV for rent or purchase.
Hot Fuzz
The film titled Hot Fuzz is another fantastic movie that provides stunning action and some of the most exciting scenes in the genre. Similar to “21 Jump Street,” this movie also features a highly competent and overly serious officer who is partnered with a much more relaxed and underachieving partner. The dynamic between the two characters is a core reason for the comparison, as they must work together to solve a series of gruesome accidents.
The central plot follows an overzealous London police officer, Nicholas Angel, who is transferred to a quiet, crime-free village. He is partnered with Danny Butterman, a police officer who is obsessed with action movies and video games. Their mission is to investigate a series of strange deaths that turn out to be part of a massive conspiracy. The film masterfully balances witty dialogue with high-energy spectacle and exaggerated action, making it one of the most beloved and crowd-pleasing buddy cop comedies ever made.
“Hot Fuzz” is available for streaming on Philo and can be rented or purchased on most digital platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
Pineapple Express
The widely famous Pineapple Express shares many strong similarities with movies like 21 Jump Street. A key reason for this is that the film, co-written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, introduces us to a friendship between two unlikely partners who are in over their heads. The film’s core theme is a blend of stoner comedy and intense action, a tone that feels very similar to the style of “21 Jump Street”.
The story follows a process server named Dale Denton who goes on the run with his marijuana dealer, Saul Silver, after witnessing a murder. They become the target of a dangerous drug lord and a corrupt police officer, which forces them to rely on each other to survive. This film is a great choice for fans who love the blend of unexpected action and a developing friendship.
“Pineapple Express” is available for streaming on Hulu and can be rented or purchased on other digital platforms.
The Hangover
The movie The Hangover is a beloved original classic that is fundamentally based on the theme of friendship between a group of guys. The central story revolves around a bachelor party that goes wrong, leaving three friends to retrace their steps and figure out what happened to their missing friend. This chaotic and hilarious journey is a perfect example of a found family and friendship theme, which is a core element of movies like 21 Jump Street.
The plot follows Phil, Stu, and Alan who wake up in Las Vegas with no memory of the previous night’s events and can’t find their friend Doug, the groom. Their difficult mission is to find Doug before his wedding can take place, which leads them on a wild and unpredictable adventure involving a tiger, a baby, and a police car. The film is filled with absurd and memorable situations, all driven by the strong bond between the friends.
“The Hangover” is available to stream on Prime Video, Hulu, Sling TV, and HBO Max, and can also be rented or purchased on Apple TV and other digital storefronts.
Bad Boys
The film Bad Boys is a classic buddy cop film that redefined the genre with its high-octane action and a strong focus on the comedic dynamic between its two leads. Much like movies like 21 Jump Street, this movie centers on a friendship between two police officers who couldn’t be more different from one another, creating a constant source of humor and tension.
The story follows two Miami narcotics detectives, Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, who are investigating a large amount of heroin that was stolen from a police vault. They must protect a witness who is only willing to talk to Mike, which forces them to impersonate each other in a series of hilarious and dangerous situations. Their journey is a mix of explosive action, witty banter, and a deep sense of camaraderie that makes the film a classic in its genre.
“Bad Boys” is available for streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and MX Player, and can be rented on Amazon Video and Apple TV.
Central Intelligence
The movie Central Intelligence is another great choice for fans of “21 Jump Street” as it centers on an unlikely pairing between two former classmates. The film explores the theme of friendship and a surprising partnership between two characters who are complete opposites. The central plot provides a perfect blend of high-energy action and well-timed humor, a hallmark of movies like 21 Jump Street.
The story follows a mild-mannered accountant, Calvin Joyner, who reconnects with a former high school classmate, Robbie Weirdicht (now known as Bob Stone), on Facebook. Bob, who was bullied in high school for being overweight, is now a lethal CIA agent who needs Calvin’s help to save the compromised U.S. spy satellite system. Their journey is a mix of shootouts, espionage, and double-crosses, all while they try to prevent worldwide chaos.
“Central Intelligence” is available for streaming on Hulu and can be rented or purchased on other digital platforms.
Let’s Be Cops
The movie Let’s Be Cops is a fantastic film that showcases a hilarious and chaotic adventure that begins with a simple premise. The central idea of the story is very much like the undercover mission in “21 Jump Street,” as it focuses on two friends who impersonate police officers and get in over their heads. The film’s humor comes from the duo trying to navigate their newfound authority and the dangerous situations they find themselves in.
The story follows two best friends, Ryan and Justin, who are struggling in their respective careers. They decide to dress up as police officers for a costume party, but they soon realize that the uniforms earn them a newfound respect and attention. They decide to continue with the charade, which leads them into increasingly dangerous situations, forcing them to learn how to rely on each other to survive.
“Let’s Be Cops” is available for streaming on Apple TV, and can also be rented or purchased on most digital platforms.
Lethal Weapon
The film Lethal Weapon is considered one of the definitive buddy cop movies that established the formula for many films that followed, including “21 Jump Street”. This film centers on the powerful and complex relationship between two mismatched police officers who must put aside their differences to solve a case. The movie is a perfect blend of intense action and character-driven drama, with both Riggs and Murtaugh learning from each other and becoming a formidable team.
The story follows a veteran detective, Roger Murtaugh, who is partnered with a younger, unstable detective, Martin Riggs, who is suicidal after the death of his wife. They initially clash, but as they investigate a murder case, they slowly begin to form a close friendship. Their journey is a mix of explosive action, witty banter, and a deep sense of camaraderie that makes the film a classic in its genre.
“Lethal Weapon” is available for streaming on Apple TV, and can be rented or purchased on other digital platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Max.
Booksmart
The movie Booksmart is another compelling high school comedy that shares many similarities with the coming-of-age theme in “21 Jump Street”. This film is also about two best friends who are facing the end of an era and must navigate the complexities of their friendship and future. The film’s wit and strong focus on the two leads’ relationship make it a perfect companion to movies like 21 Jump Street.
The story follows two high school seniors, Amy and Molly, who have spent their entire high school careers focused on academics to get into prestigious colleges. On the night before graduation, they realize they have missed out on the typical high school experience and decide to make up for it by attending a major graduation party. Their chaotic journey is a hilarious and heartfelt exploration of friendship, self-discovery, and the pressures of fitting in.
“Booksmart” is available for streaming on Hulu and can be rented or purchased on most digital platforms.
American Pie
The film American Pie is a quintessential teen comedy that paved the way for many films in the genre, including “21 Jump Street”. The movie is centered on a group of high school friends who are determined to lose their virginity by prom night. The film’s honest and often crude take on teenage sexuality and friendship made it a landmark in the genre.
The story follows a group of four friends—Jim, Kevin, Oz, and Finch—who make a pact to lose their virginity by the time they graduate from high school. Their seemingly straightforward goal leads to a series of comedic misadventures, from embarrassing moments to cringe-worthy attempts at seduction. The film masterfully balances humor with emotional moments, as the friends learn about themselves and their relationships.
“American Pie” is available for streaming on Philo and can be rented or purchased on most digital platforms.
More Recommendations by Theme
If You Loved the Action & Buddy Cop Genre…
Bad Boys II
The film Bad Boys II is the sequel to the original and amplifies the high-octane action and comedic banter between its two leads, Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. The film follows the detectives as they investigate a new case involving a massive drug ring in Miami. Much like its predecessor and movies like 21 Jump Street, the film is filled with explosive car chases, intense gunfights, and the constant back-and-forth between the two leads.
Point Break
The classic film Point Break is a top-notch buddy cop action movie that centers on an undercover FBI agent who is tasked with infiltrating a group of bank robbers. The movie explores the complex relationship between the agent, Johnny Utah, and the charismatic leader of the robbers, Bodhi. Much like movies like 21 Jump Street, the film has a great mix of high-stakes action and a deep, unconventional bond between its two main characters.
If You Loved the Found Family & Friendship…
Guardians of the Galaxy
This action-packed science-fiction adventure focuses on the compelling theme of a found family, bringing together a group of individuals who couldn’t be more different from one another. The story follows a collection of misfits, each hailing from different planets and backgrounds, who are initially thrown together by circumstance. Over the course of their journey, this ragtag group of outlaws and loners learns to overcome their differences and forge an unbreakable bond, becoming a tough, unconventional, but ultimately lovely family. It is this newfound connection that allows them to successfully unite their strengths and work together to secure the entire universe from a powerful and destructive threat.
The Hangover Part II
This film is a sequel to “The Hangover” and continues the misadventures of the “Wolfpack”. The plot follows Phil, Stu, and Alan who wake up in Bangkok with no memory of the previous night’s events and must find Stu’s future brother-in-law, who has gone missing. The film is filled with chaos, humor, and a testament to the unbreakable bond between these friends. It is a great example of the friendship and found family theme that is so prevalent in movies like 21 Jump Street.
If You Loved the Undercover High School Comedy…
Kindergarten Cop
The film Kindergarten Cop is a hilarious undercover comedy that shares many similarities with “21 Jump Street”. The story follows a tough, streetwise cop who is forced to go undercover as a kindergarten teacher to find a drug dealer’s ex-wife and son. The film’s humor comes from the fish-out-of-water scenario, as the cop struggles to handle a classroom full of five-year-olds.
Miss Congeniality
The film Miss Congeniality is another great undercover comedy that is a perfect choice for fans of “21 Jump Street”. The story follows a tomboyish FBI agent, Gracie Hart, who is forced to go undercover as a beauty pageant contestant to stop a bomb threat. The film’s humor comes from the complete transformation of the main character, as she tries to navigate the world of beauty queens while maintaining her tough, no-nonsense persona.
Conclusion: What’s Your Next Adventure?
As we’ve seen on this journey, from the hilarious antics of “The Other Guys” to the high-stakes action of “Lethal Weapon,” it is clear that many incredible films are available that explore the powerful “21 Jump Street” friendship concept. This theme of a deep bond between unlikely companions is truly universal and can be found in all corners of cinema. I truly hope this article’s movie list has been helpful and has inspired you to find your next great adventure movie. There is a whole world of amazing stories just waiting to be discovered.
