It's been a quarter of a century since the first Super Troopers film, and the Broken Lizard crew is back with their third installment, Super Troopers 3. While this franchise has its dedicated fans, I can't help but wonder if the magic has worn off.
The film, which revolves around the gang's hijinks and a wedding gone awry, feels like a tired retread of old jokes. The gang, now older and presumably wiser, still relies on the same formula: dick jokes, ethnic humor, and a heavy dose of marijuana-induced laughter.
The Cast and Characters
The core cast, including Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, and Steve Lemme, reprise their roles with their signature mustaches. The addition of Hannah Simone as Thorny's sister, Sarita, brings a fresh face to the table, but the focus remains on the bromance between Thorny and Farva.
Storyline: Farva's Wedding
The plot centers around the unlikely romance between Farva and Sarita, which leads to a traditional Indian-style wedding. Thorny, in a desperate attempt to sabotage the nuptials, resorts to various antics, including gifting his future in-laws with a Gandhi DVD. It's a premise that feels forced and lacks the spontaneity of the earlier films.
Subpar Humor and Missed Opportunities
The film's humor falls flat, relying on crude references and outdated gags. The term "Dutch Oven" and the snake venom scene, which results in a roomful of erections, feel more cringe-worthy than funny. Even the talented Brian Cox, fresh off his success in Succession, seems miscast as the cantankerous Captain O'Hagan.
A Lack of Evolution
What makes this installment particularly disappointing is the lack of growth or evolution in the characters. They remain stagnant, relying on their trademark mustaches and outdated humor. The film feels like a missed opportunity to explore new avenues and push the boundaries of comedy.
The Bottom Line
Super Troopers 3 is a reminder that not all sequels live up to their predecessors. While it may satisfy die-hard fans, it's unlikely to win over new audiences. The film's humor feels forced, and the characters' lack of growth leaves a sour taste. Personally, I think it's time for the Broken Lizard crew to hang up their mustaches and move on to fresh, more inspiring projects.
