Welcome to Jackass, and if you’re not already a Jackass fan, this movie probably isn’t going to change your mind. If grown men getting hit in the nuts, vomiting, and putting themselves through absolute hell isn’t your thing, then this franchise probably just isn’t for you. But for those of us who have loved these movies for years, this is another great entry and a really bittersweet sendoff.
What I think a lot of people have come to realize over the years is that Jackass is about more than just the stunts. Underneath all the chaos is a group of friends who genuinely love each other. They’ve been through everything together. They’ve dealt with tragedy after losing Ryan Dunn, they’ve weathered the fallout with Bam Margera, and they’ve all grown up in different ways. Johnny Knoxville and Steve-O are sober now, they’re healthier, and they’ve reached a point where they don’t tolerate the kind of negativity that once surrounded the group. I actually respect that. They still put themselves through absolute hell to entertain us, but it feels like they finally know where to draw the line.
This probably isn’t the strongest movie in the franchise, but that’s mostly because it’s as much of a celebration as it is a new installment. It mixes classic moments with brand-new material, almost like a greatest hits collection. Honestly, that works. Watching some of the most legendary clips again just reminds you why this franchise has endured for over 25 years.
The new sketches are still hilarious. The colonoscopy prep game of Twister had me crying laughing, the escape room from hell was fantastic, and yes, Steve-O somehow continues to find new things to shove up his ass. The man is an absolute champion. Johnny Knoxville remains one of the most naturally likable people on screen, Danger Ehren and Dave England are still legends, and it was great seeing everyone fall back into their familiar roles. Dave is still taking shots to the groin, Ehren is still being tortured, and even though Preston and Wee-Man are a little more sidelined now, it’s just nice seeing the band back together one last time.
It’s also surprisingly emotional. Johnny gets choked up throughout the movie because this has literally been his life for over 25 years. There’s even a moment where he’s hooked up to a lie detector and asked if this is really the last one. Watching him get emotional made it hit home that these guys simply can’t keep doing this forever. Their bodies have been through enough.
I also couldn’t help but think how bittersweet it is that Bam couldn’t get himself together enough to be a bigger part of this farewell. At the same time, it’s encouraging seeing the rest of the crew taking better care of themselves. Steve-O is sober. Knoxville is healthier. Preston has lost a ton of weight. Wee Man, Dave, and the rest of the crew seem to be in a much better place than they were years ago. After watching these guys abuse their bodies for decades, it’s nice knowing they’ll hopefully be around for a long time.
One thing I’ve always appreciated is how the production value kept improving with each movie. As the franchise got bigger, the filmmaking itself became more polished, making the theater experience even more enjoyable. Speaking of theaters, I caught a Friday afternoon matinee, and while I had a blast, I do wish I’d seen it with a packed crowd. Comedies like this are contagious. The more people laughing around you, the harder you laugh.
Looking back, I think Jackass has only become more respected with time. Twenty years ago, people dismissed it as stupid. Now I think more people recognize that there really isn’t anything else like it. It’s outrageous, it’s reckless, it’s ridiculous—but it’s also built around genuine friendship and commitment. These guys willingly sacrificed their bodies to make people laugh, and they created something completely unique in the process.
I’ve seen every Jackass movie in theaters since Jackass Number Two, and I wouldn’t have missed this one for anything. It’s not the best film in the series, but it’s a heartfelt, hilarious farewell to one of the most unique franchises ever made.
Nothing else is quite like Jackass, and that’s exactly why I’m going to miss it.
Jackass Best & Last = 78/100
