It's been a quarter of a century since the first Super Troopers film, and the Broken Lizard comedy troupe is back with their third installment, Super Troopers 3. While the original movie may have left a lasting impression on some, this latest addition to the franchise is unlikely to win over new fans.
Super Troopers 3 is a film that caters to a very specific audience, one that appreciates the troupe's brand of humor, which often revolves around crude jokes and ethnic stereotypes. The core cast, including Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Erik Stolhanske, and Paul Soter, reprise their roles as the iconic mustachioed troopers, but their antics and jokes feel tired and uninspired.
The Storyline
The film's subtitle, Farva's Wedding, sets the stage for a whirlwind romance between Farva, the vulgarian trooper, and Sarita, the sister of his fellow officer Thorny. After rescuing Sarita from a car accident, Farva and Sarita's relationship progresses rapidly, much to Thorny's horror. Thorny, in a desperate attempt to sabotage the upcoming traditional Indian-style wedding, tries to convince his conservative parents that Farva is an unsuitable match. However, Farva's unexpected charm offensive leaves Thorny's plans in tatters.
Subpar Humor and Missed Opportunities
The film's humor, which revolves around crude references and physical comedy, often falls flat. Jokes about terms like "Dutch Oven" and scenes involving snake venom and erections feel forced and lack the cleverness that might have elevated them. The film also misses an opportunity to explore more nuanced themes, such as cultural differences and stereotypes, choosing instead to rely on broad, unfunny gags.
Supporting Characters and Plots
Other storylines include Foster's jealousy over his ex-girlfriend Ursula's flirtation with a rookie trooper and an illicit drug scheme involving maple syrup. However, these subplots feel rushed and underdeveloped, serving only as a backdrop for the main comedy segments.
A Mixed Bag of Gags
While some of the gags do land, the overall execution is clumsy and uneven. By the time the film reaches its climax, with a chaotic wedding shootout and troopers covered in syrup, the audience is more likely to feel exhausted than entertained. The film's reliance on shock value and physical comedy overshadows any potential for intelligent humor or meaningful storytelling.
A Brief Moment of Amusement
That said, the film does have a few redeeming moments. The cameo appearance by one of the stars from the previous films and some genuinely funny outtakes provide a brief respite from the overall mediocrity. Brian Cox, who plays Captain O'Hagan, proves his comedic timing and charm, even outside of his role in Succession.
Final Thoughts
Super Troopers 3 is a film that will likely please only the most dedicated fans of the franchise. For those seeking a genuinely funny and well-crafted comedy, this installment is unlikely to deliver. The film's reliance on crude humor and missed opportunities for deeper exploration make it a disappointing entry in the Super Troopers series. Personally, I think it's a reminder that not all sequels or franchises should be resurrected, especially when the original spark is long gone.
