Sgt. Bilko is a 1996 comedy film loosely based on the 1950s television series The Phil Silvers Show, which starred Phil Silvers as the titular character. In the film, Steve Martin takes on the role of Sgt. Ernie Bilko, a sly and cunning master of the art of non-work who runs a motor pool at a Kansas Army base.
Bilko is constantly scheming to make a quick buck and avoid any real work, much to the chagrin of his superiors. His right-hand man, Master Sergeant Ernest G. Bilko is played by Dan Aykroyd.
When the base is threatened with closure due to budget cuts, Bilko comes up with a plan to win a high-stakes gaming competition against a rival Army base, hoping to keep his soldiers employed. Along the way, Bilko must navigate a variety of obstacles, including a by-the-book officer played by Phil Hartman and a beautiful reporter played by Glenne Headly who threatens to expose his shenanigans.
The film received mixed reviews from critics but was a moderate box office success. It is remembered for its ensemble cast, with supporting turns from the likes of Chris Rock, Daryl Mitchell, and Dan Aykroyd. The film also features some notable cameos, including James Earl Jones as himself and Austin Pendleton as a senator.