21 Jump Street

"21 Jump Street" (1987-1990): This 1980s pop equivalent to "The Mod Squad" gave Depp his first starring role as Officer Tom Hanson, a rookie cop placed in a special undercover unit dealing with teen crime and high school assignments. The show is as dated as a Kajagoogoo ... moremusic video, from its faux-MTV fashions to its tiresome synth score, but therein lies its flashback appeal. And Depp transcends his pretty-boy casting to show off his understated wit, undeniable range and easy charisma. After three seasons on the show, Depp was ready for the big screen again, and this time he returned as a leading man. (PhotoFest/Retna Ltd.)