Police Academy 3: Back in Training (1986)

Police Academy 3: Back in Training Poster

When police funding is cut, the Governor announces he must close one of the academies. To make it fair, the two police academies must compete against each other to stay in operation. Mauser persuades two officers in Lassard's academy to better his odds, but things don't quite turn out as expected...

Intro to "Police Academy 3: Back in Training"
"Police Academy 3: Back in Training" is a 1986 comedy movie directed by Jerry Paris, and it's the third installation of the "Authorities Academy" series. The film continues the slapstick humor and character-driven shenanigans that the franchise is understood for, providing a mix of physical funny and verbal gags. With a cast that includes Steve Guttenberg, Bubba Smith, David Graf, Michael Winslow, Marion Ramsey, Leslie Easterbrook, and Art Metrano, the film provides the return of the lovable misfits in blue as they tackle a new set of difficulties.

Plot Summary
The main plot of "Police Academy 3: Back in Training" focuses on the monetary struggles of law enforcement training organizations. The state has chosen to close among its two police academies due to monetary restraints, and to determine which one, a competitors is established between the two schools. The original academy, led by Commandant Lassard (George Gaynes), and the rival academy, handled by Commandant Mauser (Art Metrano), should prove their merit to remain operational.

Unbeknownst to Lassard, Mauser is figured out to sabotage his academy to ensure his own school's survival. As a result, Mauser tries to attract the very best cadets and instructors, while Lassard, true to form, winds up with the less preferable, albeit adorable, prospects. The returning cast from the previous films, such as Mahoney (Steve Guttenberg), Hightower (Bubba Smith), Tackleberry (David Graf), and Jones (Michael Winslow), join the fray to help Lassard's underdog accomplice.

Throughout the movie, the audience is treated to different comical trials and tribulations as the mangy team of recruits undergoes training. The cadets are faced with tough tasks, and they should interact to overcome both the obstacles of the training and the deceitful techniques used by Mauser and his team.

Characters and Comedy
The movie's humor mainly originates from the unique and eccentric characters of the cadets and their trainers. The movie presents new characters to the already dynamic group, including Cadet Nogata (Brian Tochi) and Cadet Karen Adams (Shawn Weatherly), adding fresh chemistry and extra opportunities for comedic moments.

Furthermore, the series' hallmark gags, such as Jones' sound effects, Tackleberry's extreme love for guns, and Hightower's sheer strength, are all present. The movie uses these characters' peculiarities, creating sequences that are both preposterous and amusing, guaranteeing fans of the series get what they expect from a "Police Academy" follow up.

Final Competition and Resolution
The climax of the movie is the final competitors in between the two academies, where the groups must showcase their police skills and abilities. This includes a humorous and disorderly series where the cadets should navigate boats in a regatta. Through a combination of luck and team effort, Lassard's academy dominates, protecting its future and resulting in the failure of Mauser's academy.

The film ends on a high note for the primary characters, with the group celebrating their victory. Commandant Lassard has the ability to keep his cherished academy open and his graduates ready to serve with their distinct blend of unorthodox techniques and true devotion to the badge.

Conclusion
"Police Academy 3: Back in Training" uses a light-hearted and feel-good funny experience attribute of the mid-1980s. Despite combined reviews from critics, the film was a commercial success and has kept a cult following among fans of the series. It provides a mix of silly antics, easy laughs, and the accomplishment of the underdog, making it a memorable addition to the "Police Academy" franchise.

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