Major Payne

1995 • 97 minutes

About this movie

When peace breaks out in America, killing machine Major Benson Winifred Payne (Damon Wayans) of the U.S. Marine Corps Special Forces is given his marching orders to the unemployment line.

Ratings and reviews

This movie was back when comedy had more spirit. Nowadays, it's tied to any and every issue, but Major Payne, even though it was made with a military school setting, focuses on nothing but the humor. It reminds me of Gunny from Full Metal Jacket, but it doesn't have the seriousness or drama of the that movie - good, all-around hilarity.

While this is a classic comedy for me, the first half of this movie is probably going to be a "Major Payne" for new audiences (at least in 2020). Jokes about weight issues, disabilities, race, not appropriate mentioning/representation of Asian soldiers, and more are used to deconstruct the young ROTC members (liberally). But if you can get through this there is a uplifting feeling/message by the end. FYI, slightly graphic battle scene at beginning of film (good after that though).

This movie is an instant classic.It will make you laugh how he tortured them but at the same time he taught them life lessons, he learned family from them but without all the corny stuff I love this and you will too