Cast: Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, Erik Stolhanske, Brian Cox, Hannah Simone, Andrew Dismukes, Chace Crawford, Lynda Carter Review by Matthew Morlai Kamara
This new addition to the franchise – the third instalment – will appeal to those many individuals who appreciate a good laugh. The joy about the previous films was that they didn’t apologise for not being too serious. Fast forward 25 years later, and those moustachioed Vermont State Troopers are back. And remarkably they’ve only gotten bolder, brighter, and infinitely more ridiculous.
This time around, the story serves up something fresh. When Farva’s wildly over-the-top Indian engagement to Thorny’s sister starts spiralling toward disaster, the team find themselves pulled between two missions. They are both cracking a dangerous new drug ring and trying to stop the wedding before it’s too late.
Jay Chandrasekhar and his fellow cast haven’t lost a beat. They’ve slipped back into their roles like they’re putting on well-worn walking boots which shockingly still feel comfortable. They’re confident, and completely committed to the chaos they create. Kevin Heffernan’s Farva remains one of the most gloriously obnoxious characters in comedy history, and seeing him opposite the wonderful Hannah Simone as Thorny’s sister adds a lovely warmth and energy to the madness. Even Brian Cox returns and if you think he’s above all this nonsense, you’d be truly, very wrong.
New faces fit right in too, Andrew Dismukes as the wide-eyed Trooper Coy brings great energy and passion to his role, while Lynda Carter’s return as Governor Jessman feels like a wonderful nod to where this all began donkey years ago.
This film won’t win everyone over unfortunately. It’s predictable and may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Nevertheless if you don’t burst out laughing at some of the scenes you truly don’t have a good sense of humour. But those of us who’ve waited years to see these friends together again will be over the moon.
One thing I’ve noticed when watching comedies with people who share a similar sense of humour, is that it feels like a joyous, unapologetic family reunion. Super Troopers 3 is silly, smart, and utterly hilarious. Welcome back, troopers. We’ve missed you!
About the Author
