Police Academy Movies In Order: A Complete Guide
Hey guys! Ever found yourself scrolling through streaming services, craving some good old-fashioned slapstick comedy, and thinking, "Man, I could really go for some Police Academy right now"? Well, you're not alone! The Police Academy franchise is a legendary series that gave us some of the most iconic comedic characters and gags of the 80s and 90s. From the brilliant but bonkers Commandant Lassard to the perpetually scheming Captain Harris, and of course, the unforgettable Mahoney, Tackleberry, and Hightower, these movies are packed with hilarious moments that still hold up today. But with so many sequels, prequels, and spin-offs, it can get a bit confusing to figure out the best way to watch them. Fear not, fellow comedy enthusiasts! We're here to break down the Police Academy movies in the order they were released, so you can binge-watch them without missing a beat and fully appreciate the evolution of these lovable, albeit unconventional, cadets. Getting the order right makes all the difference, especially when you start seeing recurring jokes and character development. It’s like watching a TV series; the story flows better and you get the full picture, the whole hilarious journey from these misfits becoming the finest (in their own way) officers the force has ever seen. So grab your popcorn, get comfy, and let's dive into the definitive watch order for the Police Academy movie marathon you've been dreaming of. We'll cover every single film, giving you a clear path to comedy gold. Trust us, you'll want to see how it all began and where these characters ended up. It's a wild ride, and we're going to guide you through every laugh-out-loud moment.
The Original and Best: Police Academy (1984)
Alright guys, let's kick things off with the one that started it all: Police Academy, released back in 1984. This is where we meet the motley crew of misfits who, due to a new, more liberal recruitment policy, are allowed to join the police academy regardless of their previous limitations – think size, intelligence, or sanity! The premise alone is gold: if you can make it through the academy, you're in. This leads to an absolute explosion of comedic talent and unforgettable characters. We're introduced to the suave but incorrigible Carey Mahoney, played by the brilliant Steve Guttenberg, who sees the academy as a place to have fun and cause chaos rather than pursue a career in law enforcement. Then there’s the trigger-happy Eugene Tackleberry (David Graf), whose passion for weaponry borders on the obsessive, and the towering Moses Hightower (Bubba Smith), a gentle giant who just wants to do right. Don't forget Larvell Jones (Michael Winslow), whose incredible sound effects impressions are legendary, and Kathleen Kirkland (Leslie Easterbrook), the surprisingly tough and surprisingly attractive Commandant's aide. And who could forget the perpetually flustered Commandant Eric Lassard (George Gaynes), who often seems more confused than in charge? The film’s humor is a perfect blend of situational comedy, witty dialogue, and some truly outrageous physical gags. Captain Harris (G.W. Bailey), the sneering, rule-obsessed instructor, serves as the perfect foil to Mahoney and the rest of the unruly cadets. His constant attempts to weed out the undeserving are hilariously thwarted at every turn. The film masterfully sets up the dynamics between these characters, establishing their unique quirks and the inevitable rivalries and friendships that will blossom. It's a classic for a reason, guys, showcasing a time when R-rated comedies could be incredibly inventive and still appeal to a wide audience. The academy itself becomes a character, a training ground for chaos and unexpected heroism. You’ll be laughing out loud at Mahoney’s pranks, Tackleberry’s over-the-top enthusiasm for firearms, and Jones’s uncanny ability to mimic any sound imaginable. The movie is a testament to the power of ensemble comedy, where every character, no matter how small their role, contributes to the overall hilarity. It perfectly establishes the tone and spirit of the franchise, making it an essential watch for anyone looking to dive into the world of Police Academy. Get ready to meet the characters that would define this beloved comedy series for years to come!
More Academy Antics: Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment (1985)
Following the massive success of the first film, the gang was back less than a year later for Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment, released in 1985. This sequel brings back most of our favorite misfits, including Mahoney, Tackleberry, Jones, and Hightower, though some cast changes do occur. This time, the focus shifts from the academy itself to their first real-world assignments as police officers. The city is being terrorized by a gang of thugs led by the flamboyant and menacing Chad Copeland (Brian Backer) and his associates. Our heroes, still somewhat clumsy and definitely unconventional, are tasked with cleaning up the streets of their old neighborhood. Mahoney, still the ringleader of mischief, finds himself butting heads with his new, by-the-book commanding officer, Lieutenant Mauser (Art Metrano), who has a serious chip on his shoulder and a deep-seated dislike for Mahoney and his antics. Mauser, who was the villainous lieutenant in the first film, returns here in a more prominent, albeit still antagonistic, role. The humor largely stems from the cadets' attempts to navigate the gritty realities of police work while still retaining their unique brand of chaos. We see Tackleberry's eagerness to use his weapons in real-life situations, often with disastrously funny results. Hightower, with his strength and surprisingly gentle nature, often finds himself in situations where brute force is needed, but he prefers a more diplomatic approach. Larvell Jones continues to entertain with his incredible sound mimicry, which proves surprisingly useful in their investigations and for general mayhem. The film introduces some new characters, including the tough but fair Sergeant Proctor (George R. Robertson) and Mahoney’s love interest, Karen Thompson (Tawny Kitaen), who adds a romantic subplot to the usual comedic chaos. While some argue that sequels often struggle to recapture the magic of the original, Police Academy 2 manages to deliver a solid dose of laughs and continues the beloved storylines of our favorite characters. It’s great to see them out in the field, applying their unique skills (or lack thereof) to actual crime-fighting. The film cleverly uses their inexperience as a source of comedy, showing them fumbling through investigations, getting into car chases, and generally causing more commotion than the criminals they’re trying to catch. Captain Harris, now demoted and working under Mauser, adds another layer of comedic antagonism. You'll enjoy seeing how these characters, who were once cadets struggling to graduate, now have to prove themselves as legitimate officers. It’s a fun continuation of the saga, offering more of the same R-rated humor and memorable characters that made the first film a hit. Don't miss their first assignment; it's a riot!
Back to the Academy (Sort Of): Police Academy 3: Back in Training (1986)
Things get a little meta with Police Academy 3: Back in Training, released in 1986. This installment sees our favorite graduates returning to the academy, but not as students this time – they’re now instructors! The premise is that the governor has decided to cut funding for one of the two police academies in the city, and it’s a competition to see which one will survive. Our returning heroes are tasked with training a new batch of cadets, who are just as, if not more, bizarre and unconventional as they were. Commandant Lassard is still at the helm, trying to keep things together, while Captain Harris, now back in a position of authority, is determined to see Lassard’s academy fail. The core cast is back, including Mahoney, Tackleberry, Hightower, Jones, and even the formidable Commandant's aide, Lieutenant Kathleen Kirkland-Smith (Leslie Easterbrook). We also get to see some memorable new recruits, like the hilariously inept Cadet Fackler (Michael Winslow, who also plays Jones, but this time in a different role) and the incredibly strong but dim-witted Cadet Blankes (Brant Von Hoffman). The humor in Back in Training comes from the classic Police Academy formula: fish-out-of-water scenarios, outrageous pranks, and the constant battle of wits between the instructors and their unruly students. Mahoney, now a seasoned (though still rebellious) officer, finds himself in the unenviable position of mentoring a group of cadets who mirror his own past indiscretions. Tackleberry, embracing his role as an instructor, is even more enthusiastic about firearms training, leading to even more explosive comedic moments. Hightower’s gentle demeanor is tested as he tries to mold a new generation of officers, while Jones’s sound effects continue to be a source of both amusement and strategic advantage. The rivalry between Commandant Lassard and Captain Harris is amplified, with Harris constantly scheming to discredit Lassard and his academy. This film is a fantastic return to the roots of the franchise, reminding us why we fell in love with these characters in the first place. Seeing them as instructors adds a fresh dynamic, and the new recruits provide plenty of opportunities for classic Police Academy slapstick. It’s a great example of how a franchise can evolve while staying true to its comedic spirit. The competition between the two academies provides a clear narrative drive, and the stakes feel surprisingly high (in a comedic way, of course). You’ll find yourself rooting for Lassard’s academy to succeed, even with its cast of highly questionable trainees. This film is a must-watch for its clever premise and its ability to deliver consistent laughs. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of these characters and their chaotic approach to law enforcement. Prepare for more training, more chaos, and more laughs!
A New City, More Trouble: Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol (1987)
Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol, released in 1987, takes the franchise in a slightly different direction by introducing a civilian auxiliary police force. Commandant Lassard, facing budget cuts and looking for ways to improve public relations, decides to launch a program where ordinary citizens can volunteer and assist the police. This initiative, naturally, leads to a whole new level of comedic chaos. Our favorite graduates, including Mahoney, Tackleberry, Hightower, and Jones, are tasked with training these civilian volunteers. The recruits are a wild bunch, each with their own eccentricities and reasons for joining the force, ranging from the fitness-obsessed Ace Riker (Richard Estey) to the elderly and surprisingly capable Mrs. Higgins (Billie Bird). Mahoney, as usual, struggles with authority and finds new ways to inject his brand of humor into the situation, often clashing with Captain Harris, who is still trying to prove his superiority. The film brings back beloved characters like Tackleberry, whose enthusiasm for weapons training is dialed up to eleven when dealing with these new recruits, and Hightower, whose immense strength is often needed to manage the more unruly civilian volunteers. Larvell Jones's unique talents are once again put to comedic use, often surprising both the criminals and his fellow officers. The introduction of the civilian patrol allows for a fresh set of comedic scenarios, as these untrained individuals stumble through police work, often creating more problems than they solve. You’ll see them trying to handle traffic stops, chase suspects, and engage in other police duties with hilariously inept results. The film also introduces some new faces, including Cadet Lois Fields (Colleen Camp), who is trying to prove herself in a male-dominated field, and the smooth-talking Copeland (Michael Winslow, again, but in yet another new role). The plot involves a notorious gang of thieves who are targeting police stations, and our makeshift force of officers and civilians must band together to stop them. Citizens on Patrol offers a unique twist on the Police Academy formula, expanding the universe and introducing a wider range of comedic characters. It’s a fun installment that, while perhaps not as strong as the earlier films for some, still delivers plenty of laughs and showcases the enduring charm of the original cast. The blend of seasoned officers and eager civilians creates a dynamic that is ripe for comedy. You’ll find yourself laughing at the well-meaning but bumbling attempts of the citizen recruits to uphold the law. It’s a classic case of mismatched individuals thrown together for a common goal, and the results are predictably hilarious. Get ready for more community policing hijinks and the usual Police Academy brand of mayhem.
Hightower Takes the Lead: Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach (1988)
Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach, released in 1988, takes our favorite officers down to sunny Miami for a change of scenery and a whole lot of new trouble. This film marks a significant turning point as Commandant Lassard is approaching retirement and needs to pass the torch. To prepare him for this momentous occasion, he's sent to Miami Beach to attend a police conference, where he's expected to receive a special commendation. However, knowing Lassard, nothing ever goes according to plan. The plot kicks off when Lassard, in a moment of absentmindedness, accidentally swaps his briefcase with that of a notorious jewel thief. This, of course, leads to a hilarious chase and a series of mishaps as Lassard and his team try to recover the briefcase and apprehend the criminals. Our core group of graduates is back, including Hightower, Tackleberry, Jones, and Mahoney (though Mahoney’s role is slightly diminished in this installment). Lassard, played with his usual befuddled charm by George Gaynes, is the central figure, and the film focuses on his journey as he faces his retirement and the challenges of the Miami Beach assignment. The humor remains classic Police Academy, with plenty of slapstick, witty banter, and outlandish situations. Tackleberry’s obsession with his firearms is on full display, and his interactions with the Miami PD are predictably explosive. Hightower, now a more experienced officer, often finds himself having to bail out his fellow officers and cadets from sticky situations, showcasing his strength and steady leadership. Larvell Jones continues to impress with his sound effects, which prove surprisingly useful in their pursuit of the thieves. The film introduces a new set of villains, including the slick and cunning jewel thief Tony D'Orio (Tony Collette) and his accomplice, played by a young, pre-stardom Matt McCoy. We also meet Inspector Sweetchuck (Robert Miranda) and Officer Harris (Michael Winslow, in yet another new role, this time as a cop!), who are part of the Miami PD and often find themselves at odds with Lassard’s crew. The addition of a beach setting allows for new comedic opportunities, from chase scenes on the sand to confrontations at beachfront bars. The film serves as a sort of passing of the torch, with Hightower stepping into a more prominent leadership role. It’s a fun and energetic installment that keeps the laughs coming, even as the franchise continues to evolve. You’ll enjoy seeing the familiar faces in a new environment, dealing with a whole new set of challenges and comedic mishaps. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the characters that the series can continue with different storylines and settings while still delivering the goods. Get ready for some sun, sand, and side-splitting shenanigans as our heroes tackle crime in the tropics!
The Final Assignment? Police Academy 6: City Under Siege (1989)
Police Academy 6: City Under Siege, released in 1989, sees our favorite officers facing their toughest challenge yet: a city gripped by a wave of high-profile robberies. A mysterious syndicate known as the "Deadly''." is responsible for a series of heists that have baffled the police department. The mayor, facing public outcry, demands action, and who better to tackle the situation than Commandant Lassard and his hand-picked team of graduates? This film brings back most of the beloved cast, including Hightower, Tackleberry, Jones, and Harris. Lassard (George Gaynes) is once again at the helm, leading his team into the fray. The plot involves an investigation into the syndicate's activities, and our heroes must use their unique (and often unconventional) skills to uncover the culprits. The humor in City Under Siege is quintessential Police Academy, with slapstick, witty dialogue, and the characters’ signature brand of chaos. Hightower, now a seasoned leader, takes charge of the investigation, using his intelligence and strength to piece together the clues. Tackleberry’s expertise with weaponry is once again a source of both amusement and surprisingly effective crime-fighting. Larvell Jones’s sound effects continue to be a valuable asset, helping the team to infiltrate secure locations and distract the criminals. Captain Harris, now working alongside Lassard and his team, finds himself begrudgingly participating in their chaotic methods, often to his own hilarious detriment. The film introduces a new set of villains, including the shadowy leader of the "Deadly''." syndicate, Wilson (Barton MacLane), and his cunning associate, Mr. Sleaze (Pat Proft, who also co-wrote the script). The investigation leads our heroes through a series of dangerous and comedic encounters, from high-speed car chases through the city streets to infiltration missions in heavily guarded buildings. The film’s title, City Under Siege, reflects the escalating stakes and the desperate measures taken by the syndicate. It’s a fitting installment for the series, providing a solid dose of action and comedy as the graduates work together to save the city. You’ll enjoy seeing the team dynamic at its finest, with each member contributing their unique talents to solve the case. The film manages to maintain the lighthearted and R-rated humor that fans have come to expect, making it a satisfying entry for long-time viewers. It’s a classic example of the franchise’s ability to deliver consistent laughs through its well-loved characters and their perpetually chaotic approach to law enforcement. Don't miss the siege; it's a hilarious showdown!
The Future of the Force: Police Academy: Mission to Moscow (1994)
Finally, we arrive at Police Academy: Mission to Moscow, released in 1994. This film takes the franchise international, with Commandant Lassard and a select group of his most reliable officers traveling to Russia to help track down a dangerous crime lord named Konstantin Konali (Gorbunoff), who has stolen a powerful computer program capable of controlling anything from traffic lights to nuclear weapons. This is the first film in the series not to feature Steve Guttenberg as Mahoney, and it also sees the departure of several other key cast members. However, it does bring back George Gaynes as Commandant Lassard, Michael Winslow as Larvell Jones, and Leslie Easterbrook as Kathleen Kirkland-Smith. The plot revolves around Lassard and his team being tasked by the Russian authorities to infiltrate Konali's operations and retrieve the stolen program. The humor, as always, relies heavily on Lassard’s bumbling leadership, Jones’s incredible sound effects, and the cultural clashes that arise from their mission in Moscow. The film introduces a new team of Russian officers who are initially skeptical of Lassard’s unconventional methods but eventually come to respect his unique approach. You’ll find yourself laughing at the culture shock experienced by the American officers in Russia, as well as the familiar antics of Lassard and his crew. The movie attempts to recapture the magic of the earlier films by focusing on Lassard’s leadership and the return of some fan-favorite characters. While it may not have the same star power as the original, it still delivers a dose of the signature Police Academy humor and camaraderie. The stakes are higher with the stolen computer program, but the core of the film remains the same: a group of lovable misfits using their unique talents to solve a high-stakes crime. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise that it could continue for so long, even with cast changes and a shift in setting. The mission to Moscow provides a fitting, albeit somewhat different, conclusion to the series for many fans. You’ll enjoy seeing Lassard back in action, leading a new adventure with a blend of his usual confusion and surprising moments of brilliance. It’s a fun ride that brings the Police Academy saga to a close (or at least, what many consider the end of the original run). Get ready for a global caper with our favorite Commandant!
So there you have it, guys! The complete Police Academy movie series in order of release. It’s been a wild ride from the academy halls to the streets of Miami and even all the way to Moscow. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of Commandant Lassard and his unforgettable crew, this guide should help you enjoy the comedic genius of the Police Academy franchise to its fullest. Remember, the order of release is key to appreciating the character development and the evolution of the jokes. So sit back, relax, and prepare for non-stop laughter. These movies are a timeless classic for a reason, offering pure, unadulterated fun that never gets old. Happy watching!
