Super Troopers 3: A Sequel That Just Doesn't Cut It
The Broken Lizard comedy troupe has been a beloved staple of the indie comedy scene for over two decades, with their unique brand of lunkheaded humor and a dedicated fan base. However, with the release of "Super Troopers 3," the group has missed the mark, failing to capture the magic of the original films.
The sequel, "Super Troopers 3," feels more like a routine franchise maintenance exercise rather than a satisfying underdog story. The film's existence is a bit of a stretch, considering the 17-year gap between the first two installments. While the original "Super Troopers" was a cult classic, "Super Troopers 2" didn't quite live up to the hype, and "Super Troopers 3" seems to be following in its footsteps.
The film's plot revolves around the misadventures of the core quintet of Vermont state troopers, who are now pushing sixty but still refusing to grow up. The jokes are still wildly scattershot and frequently lame, with the production remaining cheap and scrappy. The affection and chemistry between the actors are still evident, but it's not enough to save the film from its shortcomings.
One of the main issues with "Super Troopers 3" is its lack of fresh ideas. The film resorts to standard wedding-farce shenanigans, awkwardly grafted onto its usual cop antics. The secondary narrative involving the troopers' bumbling attempts to crack a Canadian drug ring is thin gruel, with unfunny business about electric cars and maple syrup. The most immediately funny gags are often the most benignly stupid and disposable.
In my opinion, the Broken Lizard comedy troupe has lost its touch. The group has been relying on the same formula for far too long, and it's starting to show. The lack of fresh ideas and the reliance on familiar characters and jokes are a recipe for mediocrity. Personally, I think the group should consider a different approach, perhaps turning "Super Troopers" into a running sitcom, like a rural GenX "Brooklyn Nine-Nine."
The film's existence raises a deeper question: when does a sequel become a rehash? "Super Troopers 3" feels more like a cash grab than a genuine effort to create something new and exciting. The cult following may still chuckle along, but it's not enough to save the film from its shortcomings. The Broken Lizard comedy troupe needs to reinvent itself if it wants to remain relevant in the ever-evolving world of comedy.
