Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum confirmed to star in 21 Jump Street

Obvious news is obvious.

Columbia Pictures released the news that Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum would be starring together in the big-screen version of 21 JUMP STREET.

Why do I see any potential for this project? Because it has Phil Lord and Christopher Miller on it. These guys wrote and directed CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS which has easily become one of my favorite animated movies. Also, for those of us who were watching MTV during the days they had animated programming, you might remember a little show called CLONE HIGH. They executive produce on HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER as well. Another good factor is the screenwriter Michael Bacall (SCOTT PILGRIM VS. THE WORLD).

Jonah Hill I have no issues with. Tatum has yet to win me over. If I had to choose between Tatum and Sam Worthington, I’ll go with Worthington. The story is a modern adaptation of the original television show that starred Johnny Depp and Richard Grieco. It ran between the years of 1987-1991. As far as I know, Grieco and Depp are both open to doing a cameo from the film.

Here’s the press release for you to graze over:

“CULVER CITY, Calif., December 1, 2010 – Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum are set to star in a contemporary motion picture adaptation of 21 Jump Street, it was announced today by Doug Belgrad, president of Columbia Pictures. Hill and Tatum are executive producers on the project, which will be directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller from a screenplay by Michael Bacall based on a treatment from Hill and Bacall. Neal H. Moritz will produce the film with Stephen J. Cannell, who will receive posthumous credit.”

“Commenting on the announcement, Belgrad said, “Jonah helped create a smart and funny vehicle that is tailor-made for him and Channing. They are a perfect duo for this film and Phil and Chris have a terrific, accessible take on the material. We love how this movie has come together and are very excited to begin production this spring.” Hannah Minghella and Jonathan Kadin are overseeing production for the film on behalf of the studio. An early hit for Fox Broadcasting, “21 Jump Street” focused on young cops with youthful appearances who work undercover in high schools and colleges. The popular series starred Johnny Depp and several other young stars and hit home with the network’s key teen demographic from 1987-1991.”