Police Academy Movies In Order: The Complete Guide

Hey there, movie buffs and comedy lovers! Ever wondered about the correct order to watch the Police Academy movies? Well, you've come to the right place! This guide will walk you through each film in the series, ensuring you experience all the hilarious hijinks in the proper sequence. Get ready for a trip down memory lane filled with slapstick humor, unforgettable characters, and those iconic sound effects.

Why Watch the Police Academy Movies in Order?

Before we dive into the list, you might be wondering, "Does it really matter if I watch these movies in order?" The answer is a resounding yes! While each film largely features self-contained plots, the character development and running gags build upon each other. Seeing the progression of characters like Carey Mahoney, Larvell Jones, and Eugene Tackleberry enhances the overall comedic experience. Plus, understanding the established dynamics makes the later films even funnier.

Think of it like this: Imagine starting a TV show in the middle of the third season. You'd miss out on crucial backstory, character introductions, and inside jokes. The same principle applies here. By watching the Police Academy movies in order, you'll fully appreciate the evolution of the characters and the recurring comedic themes. For instance, the rivalry between Mahoney and Captain Harris becomes much more enjoyable when you've seen its origins. Moreover, the gradual changes in the academy's recruits and instructors add depth to the series.

Furthermore, watching the movies chronologically allows you to witness the changing comedic styles and filmmaking techniques across the years. The earlier films have a distinct 1980s charm, while the later installments attempt to modernize the humor. By following the order, you'll gain a better understanding of how the series adapted (or sometimes struggled to adapt) to the evolving tastes of audiences. And let's not forget the nostalgia factor! Watching the movies in order evokes a sense of nostalgia for those who grew up with the series, bringing back memories of laughter and classic comedic moments. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to experience the Police Academy movies the way they were meant to be seen – in order!

The Definitive Police Academy Movie List

Alright, let's get down to business! Here's the complete list of Police Academy movies in their chronological order of release. Get ready to laugh your socks off!

1. Police Academy (1984)

The one that started it all! This is where the madness begins. Police Academy introduces us to Carey Mahoney (played by the iconic Steve Guttenberg), a charming troublemaker forced to join the police academy as an alternative to jail. The city's mayor, facing a police shortage, has decreed that the academy must accept all applicants, regardless of their qualifications. What follows is a hilarious parade of misfits, including the sound-effects wizard Larvell Jones, the gentle giant Moses Hightower, and the gun-obsessed Eugene Tackleberry. The instructors, led by the exasperated Commandant Lassard, struggle to maintain order as the recruits wreak havoc. This first installment sets the tone for the entire series, establishing the characters and comedic style that would become its trademarks. It's a must-watch for any comedy fan and a perfect starting point for your Police Academy marathon.

The success of Police Academy lies in its blend of slapstick humor and relatable characters. The film doesn't take itself too seriously, embracing absurdity and silliness at every turn. The performances are top-notch, with Guttenberg's charismatic portrayal of Mahoney leading the charge. The supporting cast, including Michael Winslow as Jones and Bubba Smith as Hightower, adds layers of humor and heart to the story. The film's simple yet effective plot, combined with its memorable scenes and quotable lines, made it an instant classic. From Mahoney's pranks to Tackleberry's over-the-top enthusiasm, Police Academy delivers non-stop laughs. It's a timeless comedy that continues to entertain audiences of all ages. If you're new to the series, this is the perfect place to start. It's a comedic masterpiece that paved the way for the sequels and solidified the Police Academy's place in pop culture history.

2. Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment (1985)

Mahoney and the gang are now officers! In Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment, the newly graduated recruits are assigned to the worst precinct in the city, led by the incompetent Captain Pete Lassard (brother of Commandant Lassard). Mahoney and his friends face off against a street gang led by the menacing Zed (Bobcat Goldthwait). The film amps up the chaos and introduces new characters, including the tough-as-nails Officer Vinnie Schtulman. Expect more pranks, more mayhem, and even more laughs as the rookies try to clean up the streets while battling their own ineptitude and the gang's antics. Police Academy 2 continues the tradition of slapstick comedy and over-the-top characters, delivering another dose of hilarious escapades.

Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment builds upon the foundation laid by the first film, further developing the characters and their comedic dynamics. The introduction of Zed as the primary antagonist adds a new layer of conflict and humor, as the gang's bizarre behavior clashes with the police force's attempts to maintain order. The film also expands the world of the Police Academy, showcasing the challenges and absurdities of real-world policing. While it may not reach the heights of the original, Police Academy 2 remains a solid entry in the series, offering plenty of laughs and memorable moments. The chemistry between the cast members is still strong, and the film's energetic pacing keeps the humor flowing. If you enjoyed the first Police Academy, you'll definitely find something to love in this sequel. It's a continuation of the comedic formula that made the original a success, with a few new twists and turns along the way.

3. Police Academy 3: Back in Training (1986)

The academy is in danger of closing! Police Academy 3: Back in Training sees Commandant Lassard's academy facing closure due to budget cuts. To prove their worth, Lassard enlists Mahoney and his friends to train a new batch of recruits and compete against a rival academy led by the stern Commandant Mauser (Art Metrano). This film brings back many of the beloved characters and introduces a fresh set of wacky trainees. Expect more training montages, outrageous pranks, and a climactic competition to determine which academy deserves to stay open. Police Academy 3 keeps the comedic momentum going, offering a fun and lighthearted adventure.

Police Academy 3: Back in Training revisits the familiar setting of the police academy, providing a sense of nostalgia for fans of the series. The film's plot revolves around the rivalry between the two academies, creating opportunities for comedic competitions and pranks. The introduction of new recruits adds fresh energy to the mix, while the return of established characters provides a sense of continuity. While some critics argue that the film's humor is repetitive, Police Academy 3 remains a popular entry in the series, offering plenty of laughs and lighthearted entertainment. The film's focus on teamwork and camaraderie adds a positive message to the comedic chaos. If you're a fan of the Police Academy formula, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this third installment. It's a fun and silly adventure that celebrates the spirit of the original film.

4. Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol (1987)

Time for citizens to join the force! In Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol, the police force launches a new program to enlist civilian volunteers to help fight crime. Mahoney and his friends are tasked with training these enthusiastic but often clueless citizens. This film introduces new characters, including the lovable but clumsy Arnie and the skateboarding fanatic Kyle. Expect more slapstick comedy, outrageous situations, and heartwarming moments as the citizens and officers work together to protect the city. Police Academy 4 continues the series' tradition of lighthearted humor and positive messages.

Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol introduces a new dynamic to the series with the addition of civilian volunteers. The film explores the challenges and absurdities of training ordinary citizens to become law enforcement assistants. The introduction of new characters like Arnie and Kyle adds fresh comedic energy to the mix. While some critics argue that the film's plot is predictable, Police Academy 4 remains a popular entry in the series, offering plenty of laughs and feel-good moments. The film's focus on community involvement and cooperation adds a positive message to the comedic chaos. If you're a fan of the Police Academy formula, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this fourth installment. It's a fun and silly adventure that celebrates the spirit of teamwork and community.

5. Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach (1988)

Sun, sand, and silliness in Miami! Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach takes the gang to Miami Beach for Commandant Lassard's retirement party. However, chaos ensues when a gang of jewel thieves targets Lassard, and it's up to Mahoney and his friends to save the day. This film offers a change of scenery and introduces new comedic elements, but it retains the series' signature slapstick humor and over-the-top characters. Expect plenty of sun, sand, and silliness as the Police Academy crew tackles crime in a new location. Police Academy 5 provides a fun and lighthearted escape, perfect for fans of the series.

Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach offers a change of scenery for the series, transporting the characters from the familiar academy setting to the sunny beaches of Miami. The film's plot revolves around Commandant Lassard's retirement and the subsequent pursuit of jewel thieves. While some critics argue that the film's humor is repetitive, Police Academy 5 remains a popular entry in the series, offering plenty of laughs and lighthearted entertainment. The film's focus on teamwork and camaraderie adds a positive message to the comedic chaos. If you're a fan of the Police Academy formula, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this fifth installment. It's a fun and silly adventure that celebrates the spirit of the original film.

6. Police Academy 6: City Under Siege (1989)

The gang fights crime bosses! In Police Academy 6: City Under Siege, a crime wave plagues the city, and it's up to the Police Academy team to stop the mastermind behind it all. This film sees the return of many familiar faces and introduces new villains for the gang to contend with. Expect more action, more laughs, and more outrageous situations as the officers try to restore order to the city. Police Academy 6 continues the series' tradition of lighthearted humor and over-the-top characters, delivering another dose of hilarious escapades.

Police Academy 6: City Under Siege returns to the familiar setting of the city, focusing on a crime wave that threatens to overwhelm the police force. The film's plot revolves around the Police Academy team's efforts to uncover the mastermind behind the chaos and restore order. While some critics argue that the film's humor is predictable, Police Academy 6 remains a popular entry in the series, offering plenty of laughs and lighthearted entertainment. The film's focus on teamwork and camaraderie adds a positive message to the comedic chaos. If you're a fan of the Police Academy formula, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this sixth installment. It's a fun and silly adventure that celebrates the spirit of the original film.

7. Police Academy: Mission to Moscow (1994)

The gang goes international! Police Academy: Mission to Moscow takes the Police Academy team to Russia to help capture a notorious computer game designer who has created a program that can bypass security systems worldwide. This film offers a change of scenery and a new challenge for the officers, but it retains the series' signature slapstick humor and over-the-top characters. Expect plenty of cultural misunderstandings, outrageous situations, and comedic action as the Police Academy crew tackles crime in a new country. Police Academy: Mission to Moscow provides a fun and lighthearted adventure, perfect for fans of the series.

Police Academy: Mission to Moscow offers a significant change of scenery for the series, transporting the characters from the familiar streets of America to the bustling city of Moscow. The film's plot revolves around the team's mission to capture a notorious computer game designer, adding a touch of international intrigue to the comedic chaos. While some critics argue that the film's humor is dated, Police Academy: Mission to Moscow remains a noteworthy entry in the series, offering a unique perspective and a change of pace. The film's focus on teamwork and adaptation to new environments adds a positive message to the comedic chaos. If you're a fan of the Police Academy formula and enjoy seeing the characters in new and unexpected situations, you might find something to appreciate in this final installment. It's a fun and silly adventure that attempts to revitalize the series with a fresh international twist.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! The complete list of Police Academy movies in order. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, watching these films in chronological order is the best way to experience the full comedic impact and appreciate the evolution of the characters. Get ready for a wild ride filled with laughter, outrageous situations, and unforgettable moments. Now go forth and enjoy the Police Academy experience!