Super Troopers 3: A Case of Overkill or a Cult Classic in the Making?
The third installment of the beloved (or should I say, infamous) Super Troopers series has arrived, and it's a curious beast. Is it a step down from its predecessors, or is it simply a different kind of fun? Let's dive into the world of Spurbury, Vermont, and its motley crew of state troopers.
A Familiar Face, A Familiar Formula
The Broken Lizard comedy troupe returns to helm this sequel, and while the formula is familiar, it's not exactly groundbreaking. The series' core strength has always been the chemistry between its members, and that's still there. The jokes are as scattershot as ever, with a healthy dose of self-awareness. But is it enough to justify another trip to the theater?
Aging Troopers, Aging Jokes
The troopers themselves are now pushing sixty, but they're still as goofy as ever. The addition of a rookie, Coy, played by Andrew Dismukes, provides some fresh energy, but it's a thin layer of newness. The dynamic between Thorny and Farva, our beloved frenemies, takes a backseat to a wedding plotline, which feels like a standard-issue comedy trope. The culture clash between Thorny's Hindu parents and American traditions is a mild highlight, but it's a bit of a stretch.
Drug Ring, Electric Cars, and Maple Syrup
The secondary narrative, involving the troopers' drug bust, is a bit of a letdown. It relies heavily on unfunny business about electric cars and maple syrup, which is a far cry from the clever, absurdist humor we've come to expect. The grossout setpieces, like Thorny fisting a wedding elephant, are still there, but they feel more like a desperate attempt to shock than a well-crafted joke.
A Cult Classic in the Making?
Despite my criticisms, there's something to be said for the enduring appeal of Super Troopers. The series has a cult following, and it's clear that the Broken Lizard crew is having fun. The jokes, while often disposable, are a good time. But is it a step up from the second installment? Not really. Perhaps it's time to consider a different approach, like a running sitcom, to keep the series fresh.
In my opinion, Super Troopers 3 is a case of too much of a good thing. It's a fun watch, but it's a step down from the series' peak. The Broken Lizard crew is still having a good time, and that's infectious, but it's a reminder that sometimes, less is more. The series should consider a change of pace to maintain its relevance and keep the fans laughing.
