Ep 67. "21 Jump Street" and "Detachment" Reviews

In season 1, episode 67 of "Maltin on Movies," film critics Leonard Maltin and his daughter Jessie Maltin provide insightful reviews of two compelling movies: "21 Jump Street" and "Detachment."

First up, Leonard and Jessie delve into "21 Jump Street," a buddy cop comedy directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. The film follows two young police officers, Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum), who are assigned to go undercover as high school students to infiltrate a drug ring. Leonard and Jessie highlight the film's fresh and self-aware approach to the buddy cop genre, infusing it with humor and clever references to the original 1980s TV series upon which it is based. They praise Hill and Tatum for their surprising comedic chemistry and commend the solid supporting cast that includes Brie Larson, Dave Franco, and Ice Cube. The Maltins discuss how "21 Jump Street" effectively balances its comedic moments with sincere character development and touches upon social issues prevalent in high schools. Overall, they conclude that the film is a well-executed and entertaining addition to the buddy cop genre.

Next, Leonard and Jessie address "Detachment," a drama directed by Tony Kaye. Set in a public high school, the film explores the experiences of substitute teacher Henry Barthes (Adrien Brody) as he confronts the struggles of both his professional and personal life. The Maltins commend the film's raw and unflinching portrayal of the education system, addressing topics such as apathy, disconnection, and the impact of neglect on students. They discuss Adrien Brody's powerful and nuanced performance, emphasizing how he effectively conveys the complex layers of Henry's character. Leonard and Jessie also recognize the exceptional ensemble cast, which includes Marcia Gay Harden, James Caan, Christina Hendricks, Lucy Liu, and Blythe Danner, among others. They delve into the film's non-linear narrative style, its use of compelling visuals and artistic elements, and the emotional impact it evokes. Despite its somber subject matter, the Maltins appreciate how "Detachment" offers glimpses of hope and redemption, making it a thought-provoking and well-crafted film.

Throughout the episode, Leonard and Jessie engage in a lively and engaging discussion, offering differing perspectives while appreciating each film's unique qualities. They draw attention to the directing styles, narrative structures, and performances, shedding light on various aspects that contribute to the overall impact of both movies. As always, Leonard's extensive knowledge of cinema history and Jessie's fresh and contemporary insights create a dynamic dynamic between the two hosts. Their thoughtful reviews provide viewers with a comprehensive understanding of "21 Jump Street" and "Detachment" and the merits of each film.

In conclusion, season 1, episode 67 of "Maltin on Movies" presents an engaging and informative review of two distinct films. Leonard and Jessie Maltin offer their insights on "21 Jump Street," highlighting its comedic approach to the buddy cop genre and the charm of its lead actors. They also delve into "Detachment," praising its raw exploration of the education system through compelling performances and artistic choices. Whether viewers are fans of comedy or drama, this episode provides an in-depth analysis of two movies that captivate and entertain in their respective genres.