Adult comedy is very funny in parts

Rating: 7/10 (22 October 2016)

Most folks who have served in the military should enjoy this film. But for certain parts and embellishment or extension of others, it could be a great comedy. The gratuitous Hollywood sex scenes don't add to the comedy, but detract from it. I suspect that the scenes of bikini- clad women mud-wrestling would be a turn-off for many people. I'm aware of the generational and specific cultural appeal this film seemed to be designed to reach. Still, it's too bad that the filmmakers couldn't see the great possibility for a dynamite film around this plot – sans the detracting sex element. It had potential to be a very funny comedy and spoof of the military and satire of the Cold War period. The main male stars of "Stripes" are hilarious in their roles. Bill Murray is John, Harold Ramis is Russell, Warren Oates is Sgt. Hulka and John Larrouquette is Capt. Stillman. John Candy is wasted in the role of Ox.
Three superb scenarios make this movie worth viewing by adults. The drill routine of the platoon for the formal military review is outstanding. The misadventure of Capt. Stillman leading some of the platoon into Soviet Czechoslovakia is hilarious, with the subsequent rescue effort by John and Russell in the secret urban assault vehicle. And the ending scene is very funny with results of the escapade for the individuals as the credits role.
The plot of "Stripes" could have been developed into a great film. Instead, it provides a few hilarious sketches amidst the humdrum riffraff of sexploitation.