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Major Payne
1995 95 min United States of America PG-13 18+
★5.9
Adventure, Comedy, Family
Director: Nick Castle
Trailers
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Description
Major Benson Winifred Payne is being discharged from the Marines. Payne is a killin' machine, but the wars of the world are no longer fought on the battlefield. A career Marine, he has no idea what to do as a civilian, so his commander finds him a job - commanding officer of a local school's JROTC program, a bunch of ragtag losers with no hope.
US Gross:
$29.41M
Worldwide:
$30.11M
Starring
Damon Wayans
Actor
Michael Ironside
Actor
Bam Bam Bigelow
Actor
Key opinion
Major Payne is widely regarded by fans as a standout 90s comedy, anchored by Damon Wayans' iconic and physically expressive performance. While critics have historically panned the film, its audience remains fiercely loyal, praising the balance of crude slapstick, genuine humor, and unexpected emotional depth.
| Acting | Damon Wayans delivers an unforgettable, career-defining performance defined by precise mimicry, physical comedy, and sharp tonal control. | |
| Emotion | The narrative effectively blends slapstick and crass humor with a sentimental character arc that turns mutual resentment into camaraderie. | |
| Humor | The film's humor is a point of divergence: supporters celebrate the relentless wit and iconic catchphrases, while others view the crude tone as dated or suitable only for younger viewers. |