If You Like Police Academy, Watch These 80s Movies
Hey guys! Love the Police Academy movies and are looking for something similar to watch? The 1980s were a golden age for comedy, and there are plenty of hilarious movies that capture the same spirit as the Police Academy franchise. If youâre looking for some side-splitting laughs and memorable characters, youâve come to the right place. Letâs dive into some of the best 80s movies like Police Academy that will have you rolling on the floor with laughter. Here are some of the films you should definitely add to your watchlist! Each of these suggestions are packed with humor, quirky characters, and the kind of lighthearted fun that made Police Academy such a hit.
1. Airplane! (1980)
Airplane! is a parody film that set the standard for the comedy genre in the 80s. This movie is known for its relentless barrage of visual gags, puns, and absurd situations. The story follows a former fighter pilot who has to land a commercial airplane after the crew becomes sick with food poisoning. The humor is fast-paced and doesn't let up for a single moment. What makes Airplane! so similar to Police Academy is its no-holds-barred approach to comedy. The characters are over-the-top, the situations are ridiculous, and the jokes come at you a mile a minute. If you love the absurd humor of Police Academy, youâll find plenty to laugh about in Airplane!. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, Leslie Nielsen, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, all delivering unforgettable performances. The directors, Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker, created a comedic masterpiece that continues to influence comedy today. Itâs a movie that never gets old, and youâll likely catch new jokes every time you watch it. For fans of Police Academy, Airplane! offers a similar blend of slapstick, witty dialogue, and unforgettable moments. It's a must-watch for anyone looking to experience the best of 80s comedy. The sheer absurdity and non-stop jokes make it a classic that stands the test of time. So, buckle up and prepare for a flight filled with laughter!
2. Caddyshack (1980)
Caddyshack is a hilarious sports comedy set at a posh country club, where the antics of the wealthy members and the working-class caddies clash in outrageous ways. The film stars Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, and Ted Knight, each bringing their unique comedic talents to the screen. The plot revolves around a young caddy trying to win a scholarship, but the real draw is the absurd and often slapstick humor that permeates every scene. What makes Caddyshack similar to Police Academy is its ensemble cast of comedic talents and its willingness to embrace the ridiculous. The characters are larger than life, and their interactions are filled with over-the-top moments and unforgettable lines. Whether it's Rodney Dangerfield's disruptive antics, Bill Murray's obsessive battle with a gopher, or Chevy Chase's laid-back charm, Caddyshack offers a smorgasbord of comedic styles that will appeal to fans of Police Academy. The movie is directed by Harold Ramis, who is known for his contributions to comedy classics like Ghostbusters and Groundhog Day. His directorial style perfectly captures the chaotic and irreverent spirit of Caddyshack, making it a timeless comedy that continues to entertain audiences. If you appreciate the blend of physical comedy and witty banter in Police Academy, you'll find plenty to love in Caddyshack. The film's enduring popularity is a testament to its comedic genius and its ability to capture the spirit of the 80s. So, grab your clubs and get ready for a round of laughter with Caddyshack!
3. Stripes (1981)
Stripes is a military comedy starring Bill Murray as John Winger, a man who impulsively enlists in the army after losing his job and girlfriend. The film follows John and his friend Russell Ziskey, played by Harold Ramis, as they navigate the absurdities of basic training and eventually find themselves on a secret mission behind enemy lines. What makes Stripes similar to Police Academy is its satirical take on authority and its emphasis on the camaraderie between its misfit characters. Both films poke fun at the establishment and celebrate the unconventional heroes who challenge the status quo. Bill Murray's performance is a highlight of the film, as he brings his signature deadpan humor and improvisational skills to the role. The supporting cast, including Harold Ramis, John Candy, and Warren Oates, adds to the comedic richness of the film. Director Ivan Reitman, who also directed Ghostbusters, brings his experience in comedy to Stripes, creating a film that is both hilarious and heartwarming. The film's blend of slapstick, witty dialogue, and social commentary makes it a classic of the 80s comedy genre. If you enjoy the irreverent humor and underdog spirit of Police Academy, you'll find plenty to appreciate in Stripes. The movie's enduring popularity is a testament to its comedic brilliance and its ability to capture the spirit of the 80s. So, get ready to salute the flag and laugh your way through Stripes!
4. Trading Places (1983)
Trading Places is a comedy film starring Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd. The plot revolves around an elaborate bet between two wealthy commodities brokers, who decide to switch the lives of a street hustler (Murphy) and a commodities director (Aykroyd) to see how each will fare in the other's world. The film is a social satire that explores themes of class, race, and the power of money. What makes Trading Places similar to Police Academy is its use of humor to challenge social norms and its focus on the comedic interactions between its diverse cast of characters. Eddie Murphy's performance is a standout, as he brings his energetic and improvisational style to the role of Billy Ray Valentine. Dan Aykroyd is equally hilarious as Louis Winthorpe III, the privileged commodities director who finds himself struggling to survive on the streets. The supporting cast, including Jamie Lee Curtis and Ralph Bellamy, adds to the comedic richness of the film. Director John Landis, who also directed Animal House and The Blues Brothers, brings his experience in comedy to Trading Places, creating a film that is both funny and thought-provoking. The film's blend of slapstick, witty dialogue, and social commentary makes it a classic of the 80s comedy genre. If you enjoy the irreverent humor and social satire of Police Academy, you'll find plenty to appreciate in Trading Places. The movie's enduring popularity is a testament to its comedic brilliance and its ability to capture the spirit of the 80s. So, get ready to trade places and laugh your way through this hilarious film!
5. Ghostbusters (1984)
Ghostbusters is a comedy film starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson as a team of paranormal investigators who start a ghost-catching business in New York City. The film is a blend of science fiction, comedy, and horror, and it features memorable characters, quotable lines, and groundbreaking special effects. What makes Ghostbusters similar to Police Academy is its ensemble cast of comedic talents and its willingness to embrace the absurd. The characters are larger than life, and their interactions are filled with over-the-top moments and unforgettable lines. Whether it's Bill Murray's sarcastic wit, Dan Aykroyd's enthusiasm for the paranormal, or Harold Ramis's deadpan delivery, Ghostbusters offers a smorgasbord of comedic styles that will appeal to fans of Police Academy. The movie is directed by Ivan Reitman, who also directed Stripes, and it features a screenplay co-written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis. The film's success spawned a franchise that includes sequels, animated series, and video games. If you appreciate the blend of physical comedy and witty banter in Police Academy, you'll find plenty to love in Ghostbusters. The film's enduring popularity is a testament to its comedic genius and its ability to capture the spirit of the 80s. So, grab your proton pack and get ready to bust some ghosts!
6. Weird Science (1985)
Weird Science is a teen comedy film directed by John Hughes, starring Anthony Michael Hall and Ilan Mitchell-Smith as two nerdy high school students who use their computer to create the perfect woman, Lisa, played by Kelly LeBrock. The film explores themes of teenage angst, popularity, and the challenges of growing up. What makes Weird Science similar to Police Academy is its over-the-top humor and its focus on the misadventures of its characters. The situations are often absurd, and the characters' reactions are exaggerated for comedic effect. John Hughes's signature style of teen comedy is on full display in Weird Science, with its mix of slapstick, witty dialogue, and heartwarming moments. The film also features a memorable soundtrack that captures the spirit of the 80s. If you enjoy the irreverent humor and underdog spirit of Police Academy, you'll find plenty to appreciate in Weird Science. The movie's enduring popularity is a testament to its comedic brilliance and its ability to capture the spirit of the 80s. So, get ready to create the perfect woman and laugh your way through this hilarious film!
7. Back to the Future (1985)
Back to the Future is a science fiction comedy film directed by Robert Zemeckis, starring Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly, a teenager who accidentally travels back in time to 1955. The film follows Marty as he navigates the challenges of the past, tries to ensure his parents fall in love, and attempts to return to his own time. What makes Back to the Future similar to Police Academy is its blend of humor, adventure, and memorable characters. The situations are often absurd, and the characters' reactions are exaggerated for comedic effect. The film is a classic of the 80s and is known for its quotable lines, memorable soundtrack, and groundbreaking special effects. The movie is a time-travel adventure filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable moments. The cast delivers stellar performances, with Michael J. Fox capturing the charm and wit of Marty McFly. If you enjoy the comedic elements and light-hearted adventure of Police Academy, Back to the Future is a must-watch. Its blend of science fiction and comedy makes it a unique and timeless classic that continues to entertain audiences of all ages. So, buckle up and get ready for a trip back in time!
8. Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)
Ferris Bueller's Day Off is a teen comedy film directed by John Hughes, starring Matthew Broderick as Ferris Bueller, a high school student who fakes illness to skip school for a day. The film follows Ferris and his friends as they embark on a series of misadventures throughout Chicago. What makes Ferris Bueller's Day Off similar to Police Academy is its celebration of rebellion and its focus on the comedic interactions between its characters. The situations are often absurd, and the characters' reactions are exaggerated for comedic effect. John Hughes's signature style of teen comedy is on full display in Ferris Bueller's Day Off, with its mix of slapstick, witty dialogue, and heartwarming moments. The film also features a memorable soundtrack that captures the spirit of the 80s. The movie's enduring popularity is a testament to its comedic brilliance and its ability to capture the spirit of the 80s. If you appreciate the irreverent humor and underdog spirit of Police Academy, you'll find plenty to appreciate in Ferris Bueller's Day Off. So, grab your friends and get ready for a day of fun and laughter!
9. Spaceballs (1987)
Spaceballs is a space opera parody film directed by Mel Brooks, starring Mel Brooks, John Candy, Rick Moranis, and Bill Pullman. The film is a spoof of the Star Wars franchise and other science fiction films. The plot follows the heroes as they fight to save their planet from the evil Spaceballs, who are trying to steal their air. What makes Spaceballs similar to Police Academy is its over-the-top humor and its willingness to embrace the absurd. The characters are larger than life, and their interactions are filled with over-the-top moments and unforgettable lines. Mel Brooks's signature style of comedy is on full display in Spaceballs, with its mix of slapstick, witty dialogue, and parodies of popular culture. If you enjoy the irreverent humor and satire of Police Academy, you'll find plenty to appreciate in Spaceballs. The movie's enduring popularity is a testament to its comedic brilliance and its ability to capture the spirit of the 80s. So, may the Schwartz be with you as you laugh your way through this hilarious film!
10. Coming to America (1988)
Coming to America is a comedy film starring Eddie Murphy as Prince Akeem Joffer, the crown prince of the fictional African nation of Zamunda, who travels to Queens, New York, in search of a bride. The film follows Akeem as he tries to blend in with the locals and find a woman who loves him for himself, not for his wealth and status. What makes Coming to America similar to Police Academy is its blend of humor, cultural satire, and memorable characters. Eddie Murphy's performance is a highlight of the film, as he brings his energetic and improvisational style to the role. The supporting cast, including Arsenio Hall, James Earl Jones, and John Amos, adds to the comedic richness of the film. Director John Landis, who also directed Trading Places, brings his experience in comedy to Coming to America, creating a film that is both funny and heartwarming. If you enjoy the irreverent humor and social commentary of Police Academy, you'll find plenty to appreciate in Coming to America. The movie's enduring popularity is a testament to its comedic brilliance and its ability to capture the spirit of the 80s. So, get ready to travel to America and laugh your way through this hilarious film!
These movies, like Police Academy, offer a great mix of laughs, memorable characters, and the kind of lighthearted fun that defined 80s comedy. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy these hilarious classics!