Police Academy Movies: Essential Films
For viewers who want to experience the best of Police Academy without committing to all seven films, this curated selection captures the franchise's essence and funniest moments. The three films represent the series' strongest entries, showcasing the core concept and character development without the diminishing returns of later sequels.
This watch order covers the complete arc from academy training to real-world policing, including the characters' return as instructors. These films contain the most memorable gags and demonstrate why the franchise became a comedy classic, making them a great choice for both newcomers and fans seeking a streamlined experience.
There is 1 other watch order available – see the link up above.
Police Academy
When new rules allow anyone to join the police force regardless of physical or mental requirements, a misfit group of recruits enters the Police Academy. Among them is Mahoney, who must choose between police training or jail time, leading to hilarious clashes with his strict instructors.
Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment
Fresh graduates from the Police Academy hit the streets for their first assignment, facing off against a group of graffiti-tagging troublemakers in this comedy sequel.
Police Academy 3: Back in Training
When budget cuts threaten to close one of two police academies, the institutions must compete against each other to determine which one survives. The familiar cast of misfit cadets faces off in a series of challenges to save their beloved academy.
Other Film Series
Bad Boys
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Bruce Dern
A prolific character actor known for intense villain roles and complex antiheroes across six decades of cinema.
Fantômas
A comedic French crime trilogy following the adventures of master criminal Fantômas and his pursuit by the bumbling Commissioner Juve.
Home Alone
A series of holiday comedy films about kids left to defend their homes against bumbling criminals, beginning with Kevin McCallister's iconic adventures.
In the Line of Duty
A landmark Hong Kong action franchise featuring female police officers in intense martial arts and stunt-heavy adventures.
No Retreat, No Surrender
A trilogy of standalone martial arts action films connected only by title and shared themes of underdog fighters facing overwhelming odds.