Combat Academy (1986)

Combat Academy Poster

"Police Academy"-style comedy set in a military school. Two errant high-school students are ordered by a judge to spend a year at a prestigious military academy, where one of the cadets finds out who is responsible for a spate of midnight thefts. Written by Mark Lennon

Introduction
"Combat Academy", likewise known as "Combat High" at times, is a 1986 made-for-TV funny movie directed by Neal Israel. The film paints a satirical photo of military schools and the teenage experience within the rigidity of a military environment. The story follows the shenanigans of two trouble-making high school trainees who are sent out to a military college by their disappointed moms and dads, in the hope that the rigorous regime would instill discipline in them.

Main Characters and Setting
The main lead characters of "Combat Academy" are Max Mendelsson, played by Keith Gordon, and Perry Barnett, portrayed by Wally Ward (likewise known as Wally Langham). These 2 rebellious youths are the timeless '80s archetype of naughty teenagers with a propensity for tricks and a distaste for authority. After a prank goes wrong at their high school, their moms and dads decide to register them in Kirkland Military School, which becomes the primary setting for the film. The academy is run by the strict and frequently comically intense General Edward Woods, acted by George Clooney's dad, Nick Clooney.

Life in the Military School
Upon their arrival at Kirkland, Max and Perry rapidly understand that military school is not a walk in the park. They find themselves in an environment that is the polar reverse of the flexibility they formerly enjoyed. Surrounded by guidelines, guidelines, and a perpetual list of dos and do n'ts, the set has a hard time to comply with the military lifestyle.

They experience the common set of characters one would anticipate in such a setting, consisting of the rigorous disciplinarians who emphasize honor and responsibility above all, and the other trainees who fall in different put on the spectrum between obedience and rebellion. In spite of their resistance to the military system, the young boys start to understand the value of relationship and teamwork, particularly when working with their fellow cadets.

The High Stakes Prank
Central to the plot is a high-stakes trick that Max and Perry choose to undertake to oppose the oppressive atmosphere of the academy. They aim to humiliate the school and its administration throughout an important event: the parents' day event. This ill-conceived plan, however, spirals out of their control and causes an unanticipated series of events that threaten both their futures at the academy and, unintentionally, national security.

Styles and Resolution
"Combat Academy" discuss styles of authority, conformity, and rebellion, together with the look for individuality amidst the pressures of a group environment. Despite the comical wrapping, the movie has an undercurrent of commentary on the expectations placed on youth and the struggles of growing up.

The film advances through a series of comedic and difficult situations, leading up to the resolution where Max and Perry, having actually learned valuable life lessons, deal with the effects of their actions. Ultimately, they take responsibility for their habits, earning regard from both their peers and the academy's personnel.

Conclusion
In conclusion, "Combat Academy" is a light-hearted yet informative look at the trials and tribulations of adolescent life when set against the background of a rigorous military school. With its 80s beauty, comedy, and coming-of-age storyline, it provides a blend of laughter and lessons. The journey Max and Perry carry out is one from carefree mischief-makers to responsible young adults, revealing that discipline and fun can exist together within the growing process of learning and self-discovery.

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