Broken Lizard's Super Troopers 3: A Heartwarming Frat-Comedy Sequel
In the world of American comedy, the sequel game is often a treacherous one. Many a comedy franchise has stumbled and fallen after its initial success, leaving fans with a sense of disappointment and a longing for the glory days. But there's one group that has consistently defied this trend: Broken Lizard. This comic troupe, best known for the 2002 hit Super Troopers, has never been a fully traditional practitioner of the form. Instead, they've crafted a unique brand of comedy that blends vulgarity with heartwarming charm, creating a loyal following that eagerly anticipates each new installment.
Super Troopers 3, the latest addition to this epic series, is a testament to the group's enduring appeal. Set in the fictional town of Vermont (though filmed in Massachusetts and New York), the movie follows the misadventures of five state troopers who find themselves in a series of hilarious and often absurd situations. At the heart of the story is the relationship between Farva (Kevin Heffernan) and Sarita (Hannah Simone), siblings who are about to become in-laws. Farva, the most cheerfully boorish of the troopers, is determined to sabotage their relationship, while Sarita's brother, Thorny (Jay Chandrasekhar), tries to keep them together.
What makes Super Troopers 3 particularly fascinating is the way it plays with the idea of hierarchy within the Broken Lizard ranks. Farva, with his short fuse and outsized antics, is a beloved character, but his relationship with Sarita is a source of tension. Thorny, the nominal ringleader, is faced with a dilemma as he tries to protect his sister from Farva's chaotic nature. This dynamic adds a layer of complexity to the film, as the audience is left wondering whether Farva's antics are a result of his love for Sarita or simply his chaotic personality.
One of the strengths of Super Troopers 3 is its ability to balance classic farce with a more modern sensibility. The movie explores themes of aging and the anxieties that come with it, but it does so in a way that feels fresh and engaging. The characters' struggles with their place in the world are relatable, and the humor is both vulgar and heartwarming, a perfect blend of slapstick and clever wordplay.
The movie also showcases the group's continued love for their Vermont setting, even though the film was shot in different locations. The local disdain for 'Big Syrup' adds a touch of authenticity to the story, and the group's ongoing debate over which syndrome Sarita's attraction to Farva stems from is a delightful example of their quirky humor. Heffernan's portrayal of Farva is a standout performance, as he relishes the opportunity to make the best of the worst guy at the office, throwing himself into bits like the scene where Farva endangers himself with a particular food choice at his bachelor party.
In an era where comedy is often dominated by puffed-up idiocy, Super Troopers 3 stands out as a refreshing and genuine comedy. The wholehearted commitment of the characters, especially Farva, is a breath of fresh air. Thorny's desire to stop his sister from marrying Farva is a clever twist, as it manages to seem relatively rational while also being hilariously absurd. This crossover between different comedy styles is a testament to the group's versatility and their ability to create something unique and entertaining.
Super Troopers 3 is a must-watch for fans of the genre, proving that Broken Lizard continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of comedy. With its perfect blend of vulgarity and heart, this sequel is a reminder that sometimes, the best sequels are the ones that embrace the spirit of the original while adding a touch of something new.
