Police Academy 5: Assignment: Miami Beach (1988) Movie Review
“Police Academy 5: Assignment: Miami Beach,” released in 1988, is the fifth installment in the popular “Police Academy” comedy series. Directed by Alan Myerson, this film takes the beloved characters out of their usual urban setting and transports them to the sunny beaches of Miami. While it attempts to capture the humor and charm of its predecessors, the film struggles to recapture the magic of the earlier entries.
Plot Summary
The film follows the familiar faces from the Police Academy series as they head to Miami Beach to celebrate Commandant Eric Lassard’s (George Gaynes) retirement. The celebration is cut short when Lassard inadvertently takes a suitcase full of stolen diamonds belonging to a group of bumbling criminals. Chaos ensues as the criminals, led by Tony (René Auberjonois), attempt to recover their loot.
As Lassard and his team, including Sergeant Carey Mahoney (Steve Guttenberg, in his last appearance in the series), tackle the criminals, they also have to contend with Captain Harris (G.W. Bailey) and his sidekick Proctor (Lance Kinsey), who are always looking to undermine them. The misadventures and slapstick humor typical of the series are abundant as the officers navigate the beaches, hotels, and streets of Miami in pursuit of justice.
Performances
The film features the return of several key cast members who deliver performances consistent with their established characters. George Gaynes as Commandant Lassard remains endearing and comically oblivious, while G.W. Bailey’s Captain Harris continues to be a humorous antagonist. Lance Kinsey’s portrayal of the bumbling Proctor adds to the comedic dynamic.
Michael Winslow returns as Sergeant Jones, showcasing his signature vocal sound effects, which remain a highlight. David Graf as Tackleberry, Bubba Smith as Hightower, and Marion Ramsey as Hooks reprise their roles, bringing familiarity and continuity to the series. While Steve Guttenberg’s absence is noticeable, Matt McCoy steps in as Sergeant Nick Lassard, attempting to fill the void with a likable performance.
Direction and Style
Alan Myerson’s direction follows the formulaic approach of the previous films, relying heavily on slapstick comedy and situational humor. The shift in location to Miami Beach provides a fresh backdrop, but the film’s style and pacing remain largely unchanged. The sunny setting allows for visually appealing scenes, but the comedy often feels recycled.
The film maintains the light-hearted and goofy tone of the series, with exaggerated characters and over-the-top situations. However, the humor occasionally falls flat, lacking the originality and sharpness of the earlier entries.
Humor and Comedy
“Police Academy 5” leans heavily on physical comedy and slapstick humor, much like its predecessors. The gags range from the mildly amusing to the predictable, with some standout moments provided by Michael Winslow’s sound effects and David Graf’s overzealous Tackleberry. The interactions between Captain Harris and Proctor continue to be a reliable source of laughs, though their antics can become repetitive.
While the film delivers some humorous moments, it struggles to sustain the comedic momentum throughout. The reliance on familiar jokes and scenarios results in a sense of déjà vu, making it less impactful compared to the original films in the series.
Themes
The central theme of “Police Academy 5” revolves around loyalty, camaraderie, and the triumph of good-hearted misfits over bumbling villains. The film emphasizes the importance of teamwork and perseverance, showcasing how the characters’ unique skills and quirks contribute to their success.
The backdrop of Miami Beach serves as a reminder of the clash between duty and leisure, with the officers balancing their responsibilities with the temptations of a vacation destination. This theme is explored through the humorous misadventures and distractions the characters encounter.
Streaming Services and Availability
As of 2024, “Police Academy 5: Assignment: Miami Beach” is available for streaming on various platforms. In the United States, you can watch the film on:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
These options provide viewers with convenient access to the film, allowing them to revisit the antics of the Police Academy team or experience them for the first time.
Conclusion
“Police Academy 5: Assignment: Miami Beach” offers a familiar dose of slapstick humor and light-hearted comedy, though it struggles to recapture the charm and originality of the earlier films in the series. The return of beloved characters and the sunny setting of Miami Beach provide some entertainment value, but the film ultimately feels formulaic and predictable.
For fans of the “Police Academy” series, the film offers a nostalgic trip back to the antics of Lassard and his team. Its availability on popular streaming services ensures easy access for those looking to enjoy a light-hearted and goofy comedy. While it may not be the strongest entry in the series, it still delivers enough laughs to make it a worthwhile watch for devoted fans.
