Police Academy Movies In Order: The Complete Guide
Hey there, movie buffs! Ever wondered about the correct order to watch the hilarious Police Academy movies? Well, you've come to the right place! This guide will walk you through each film in the series, ensuring you don't miss a single laugh. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's dive into the world of Commandant Lassard and his unforgettable recruits!
Police Academy (1984)
Police Academy, released in 1984, is where it all began. This classic comedy introduced us to a group of misfit cadets who joined the police academy due to a new policy that eliminated entry requirements. The film stars Steve Guttenberg as Carey Mahoney, a charming rogue who is forced to attend the academy as an alternative to jail. From the get-go, Police Academy sets the tone with its slapstick humor, wacky characters, and irreverent take on law enforcement. We meet unforgettable characters like Larvell Jones (Michael Winslow), known for his incredible sound effects, Eugene Tackleberry (David Graf), the gun-obsessed maniac, and the gentle giant Moses Hightower (Bubba Smith). The film's plot revolves around the struggles of these underdogs as they navigate the rigorous training and constant ridicule from their superiors, particularly the stern and humorless Lieutenant Harris (G.W. Bailey).
Police Academy thrives on its ability to create comedic scenarios out of everyday situations. Whether it's the cadets' disastrous attempts at marching, their awkward encounters with the public, or their constant pranks on Lieutenant Harris, the film delivers a non-stop barrage of laughs. The chemistry between the cast members is undeniable, and their performances elevate the material, making the characters relatable despite their exaggerated personalities. Beyond the humor, Police Academy also touches on themes of acceptance and the idea that anyone, regardless of their background or abilities, can contribute to society. This message, combined with the film's infectious energy and quotable lines, made it a massive box office success and launched a franchise that would span several sequels and spin-offs. It's a must-watch for any comedy fan and a perfect starting point for anyone looking to explore the world of the Police Academy.
Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment (1985)
Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment, released in 1985, picks up where the first film left off. With the Police Academy graduates now on the streets, they face new challenges and comedic situations as they try to prove themselves as capable officers. Steve Guttenberg returns as Carey Mahoney, leading the charge alongside his fellow misfit cops, including Larvell Jones, Eugene Tackleberry, and Moses Hightower. This time, the gang is assigned to the troubled 16th precinct, which is plagued by a gang of unruly punks led by the menacing Zed (Bobcat Goldthwait). Captain Pete Lassard (Howard Hesseman), brother of Commandant Lassard, struggles to maintain order in his precinct, and it's up to Mahoney and his crew to turn things around.
Police Academy 2 amps up the slapstick humor and introduces new characters, such as the timid and accident-prone Officer Vinnie Schtulman (Peter Van Norden), who becomes a frequent victim of Tackleberry's overzealousness. The film's plot revolves around the cadets' efforts to bring Zed and his gang to justice while dealing with the incompetence and corruption within the precinct. Lieutenant Harris is back, now transferred to the 16th precinct, and continues to be a thorn in Mahoney's side, providing ample opportunities for pranks and comedic confrontations. The humor in Police Academy 2 is broader and more exaggerated than in the first film, with over-the-top stunts and absurd scenarios taking center stage. While it may not have the same fresh appeal as the original, Police Academy 2 still delivers plenty of laughs and maintains the lighthearted spirit of the franchise. It reinforces the theme of teamwork and the idea that even the most unconventional individuals can make a difference when they work together. For fans of the first film, Police Academy 2 is a worthwhile continuation of the series, offering more of the same zany humor and lovable characters.
Police Academy 3: Back in Training (1986)
In Police Academy 3: Back in Training, released in 1986, the original crew returns to the academy, but this time as instructors. Due to budget cuts, the Police Academy faces closure, and Commandant Lassard devises a plan to save it by proving its superiority over a rival academy led by the villainous Commandant Mauser (Art Metrano). Carey Mahoney, Larvell Jones, Eugene Tackleberry, and Moses Hightower are tasked with training a new batch of recruits, while simultaneously sabotaging Mauser's academy. The film sees the return of Lieutenant Harris, who is now working with Mauser, adding another layer of comedic rivalry to the mix. The plot revolves around the two academies competing in a series of challenges to determine which one deserves to stay open.
Police Academy 3 brings back the familiar slapstick humor and introduces a new group of misfit cadets, each with their own unique quirks and personalities. The film's humor is derived from the cadets' clumsy attempts at training, the instructors' creative teaching methods, and the ongoing pranks between the two academies. Lieutenant Harris and Commandant Mauser's rivalry provides plenty of comedic moments as they try to outdo each other, often with disastrous results. While Police Academy 3 may not reach the heights of the first two films, it still offers a good dose of lighthearted entertainment and maintains the franchise's signature style. The film reinforces the theme of loyalty and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. It also highlights the idea that true leadership involves inspiring and empowering others, rather than simply exerting authority. For fans of the series, Police Academy 3 is a fun and enjoyable addition to the Police Academy canon, providing more of the zany humor and lovable characters that made the franchise a success.
Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol (1987)
Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol hit screens in 1987, bringing a fresh twist to the series. This time, Commandant Lassard introduces the Citizens on Patrol (COP) program, enlisting civilian volunteers to help fight crime. Carey Mahoney, Larvell Jones, Eugene Tackleberry, and Moses Hightower are tasked with training these enthusiastic but inexperienced citizens. The film also features a group of skateboarders, led by a young David Spade, who initially clash with the police but eventually become part of the COP program. The plot revolves around the cadets and the COP volunteers working together to combat crime and prove the effectiveness of the program.
Police Academy 4 ramps up the slapstick and introduces a new element of community involvement. The film's humor is derived from the citizens' clumsy attempts at law enforcement, the cadets' creative training methods, and the ongoing rivalry between the police and the skateboarders. Lieutenant Harris is back, still trying to undermine Mahoney and his crew, providing ample opportunities for comedic confrontations. Police Academy 4 may not be as critically acclaimed as the earlier films, but it still offers plenty of laughs and maintains the franchise's lighthearted spirit. The film reinforces the theme of community and the idea that everyone can contribute to making society a better place. It also highlights the importance of bridging divides and finding common ground, even with those who seem different. For fans of the series, Police Academy 4 is a fun and entertaining addition to the Police Academy canon, providing more of the zany humor and lovable characters that made the franchise a success.
Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach (1988)
Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach, released in 1988, takes the misfit cops to the sunny shores of Miami. Commandant Lassard is forced to retire, and the entire Police Academy gang travels to Miami Beach for his retirement ceremony. However, chaos ensues when a gang of jewel thieves targets Lassard, and it's up to Mahoney and his crew to save the day. The film sees the return of Carey Mahoney, Larvell Jones, Eugene Tackleberry, and Moses Hightower, as well as the introduction of new characters, such as Captain Harris's new sidekick, Sergeant Proctor (Lance Kinsey). The plot revolves around the cadets' efforts to catch the jewel thieves and ensure that Lassard's retirement isn't ruined.
Police Academy 5 brings the familiar slapstick humor to a new location, with the sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife of Miami providing a backdrop for the cadets' antics. The film's humor is derived from the cultural clashes between the cops and the Miami locals, the cadets' clumsy attempts at undercover work, and the ongoing rivalry between Mahoney and Harris. Police Academy 5 may not be as critically acclaimed as the earlier films, but it still offers plenty of laughs and maintains the franchise's lighthearted spirit. The film reinforces the theme of loyalty and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. It also highlights the idea that even in unfamiliar surroundings, the bonds of friendship can help overcome any challenge. For fans of the series, Police Academy 5 is a fun and entertaining addition to the Police Academy canon, providing more of the zany humor and lovable characters that made the franchise a success.
Police Academy 6: City Under Siege (1989)
In Police Academy 6: City Under Siege, released in 1989, the city is plagued by a series of robberies masterminded by a mysterious criminal mastermind known only as the Mastermind. Commandant Lassard and his misfit cops are called upon to solve the case and bring the Mastermind to justice. Carey Mahoney, Larvell Jones, Eugene Tackleberry, and Moses Hightower return to face this new challenge, along with Captain Harris and Sergeant Proctor, who provide their usual comedic relief. The plot revolves around the cadets' efforts to uncover the Mastermind's identity and stop his reign of terror.
Police Academy 6 brings back the familiar slapstick humor and adds a mystery element to the mix. The film's humor is derived from the cadets' clumsy attempts at detective work, their unconventional methods of solving crimes, and the ongoing rivalry between Mahoney and Harris. Police Academy 6 may not be as critically acclaimed as the earlier films, but it still offers plenty of laughs and maintains the franchise's lighthearted spirit. The film reinforces the theme of teamwork and the importance of working together to overcome challenges. It also highlights the idea that even the most unlikely individuals can make a difference when they put their minds to it. For fans of the series, Police Academy 6 is a fun and entertaining addition to the Police Academy canon, providing more of the zany humor and lovable characters that made the franchise a success.
Police Academy 7: Mission to Moscow (1994)
Police Academy 7: Mission to Moscow, released in 1994, marks the final installment in the Police Academy film series. In this film, the misfit cops are invited to Moscow to help the Russian police catch a dangerous mafia boss who is using a computer game to control people's minds. Carey Mahoney, Larvell Jones, Eugene Tackleberry, and Commandant Lassard return for one last adventure, along with Captain Harris and Sergeant Proctor. The plot revolves around the cadets' efforts to stop the mafia boss and save the world from his mind-control scheme.
Police Academy 7 brings the familiar slapstick humor to a new location, with the exotic setting of Moscow providing a backdrop for the cadets' antics. The film's humor is derived from the cultural clashes between the American cops and the Russian police, the cadets' clumsy attempts at espionage, and the ongoing rivalry between Mahoney and Harris. Police Academy 7 may not be as critically acclaimed as the earlier films, but it still offers plenty of laughs and maintains the franchise's lighthearted spirit. The film reinforces the theme of friendship and the importance of working together to overcome challenges. It also highlights the idea that even in a foreign land, the bonds of camaraderie can help achieve any goal. For fans of the series, Police Academy 7 is a fun and entertaining conclusion to the Police Academy canon, providing one last dose of the zany humor and lovable characters that made the franchise a success. Although it departs somewhat from the original formula, it serves as a nostalgic farewell to the beloved characters and their comedic misadventures.
So there you have it, guys! The complete list of the Police Academy movies in order. Now you can enjoy the antics of Mahoney, Lassard, and the rest of the gang in the correct sequence. Happy watching!