This 1984 comedy film stars Murray Langston as Melvin White, an inept police officer who moonlights as 'The Unknown Comic' and gets caught up in a series of chaotic events. What is the name of this movie?

The 1984 comedy film you're recalling is indeed "Night Patrol (Review)," a chaotic and often absurd take on the police comedy genre. The movie centers on Melvin White, an earnest but utterly inept police officer played by Murray Langston. By night, Melvin secretly transforms into "The Unknown Comic," donning a signature paper bag over his head to perform stand-up comedy, a persona Langston famously used in real life. This dual identity forms the core of the film's humor, as Melvin attempts to keep his two lives separate while navigating a series of bizarre and increasingly complicated situations on the streets.

The plot thickens when a thief begins committing crimes dressed as The Unknown Comic, leading to confusion and suspicion within the police department, particularly from Melvin's captain. Melvin, as a police officer, then finds himself in the awkward position of having to investigate the very persona he embodies after hours, all while trying to clear his own name and prevent his secret from being revealed. This premise allows for a blend of slapstick, juvenile humor, and surreal moments that were characteristic of some comedies of the era.

"Night Patrol" is notable for its cast, which, in addition to Murray Langston, includes Linda Blair as Officer Sue Perman and Pat Paulsen as Melvin's partner, Officer Kent Lane. The film, directed by Jackie Kong, has been described as a raunchier, more outlandish cousin to the "Police Academy" series, often pushing boundaries with its humor. Despite receiving generally negative reviews upon its release, it has gained a cult following over the years for its unique brand of offbeat comedy and the memorable performance by Langston, who brought his established "Unknown Comic" act to the big screen.