Up the Academy (1980) Review

 

Up the Academy (1980)

Up the Academy follows 4 young, misfit teens, after they are sent off to military camp. Despite it’s strictness, they will stop at nothing to get into trouble.

Wow, what a movie. Going into it, I had never heard of it but this has soon become one of my favorite comedies ever. It was very obviously made on a shoestring budget, featuring the same reused songs as character themes and the seemingly intentionally bad dub over audio. But it’s so self aware that, like I said, it seems intentional in it’s campy and hysterical humor, using excellent timing and a parodied style of comedy that works unbelievably well. It also boasts an amazing soundtrack featuring punk hits from Iggy Pop, Blondie, and Cheap Trick, that are constantly playing and create a fun and kickass attitude.

We also see some outright hilarious performances, featuring a young Ralph Macchio, Tommy Citera, Hutch Parker, Antonio Fargas, and Ron Liebman, who is far and above what makes this movie so good (though he tries his damndest to hide his association with it). As Liceman, Liebman is comedy gold with his stern and raunchy attitude to the kids, making their relationship downright funny.

Up the Academy, presented by MAD Magazine (and soon revoked) is a very raunchy, sometimes racist, and outlandishly controversial comedy that predates Police Academy, but is made in the same vein. It’s no wonder why this film has hit cult status as one of the most underrated comedies of the past 40 years. It’s a mix of teen angst and their rebellious natures, set to the tune of classic punk anthems, while being hindered at every corner by authority, making it shine so humorously bright.

8.9/10