Slapstick Reloaded: NEESON leads laugh-filled NAKED GUN REBOOT

Director: Akiva Schaffer
Writers: Dan Gregor, Doug Mand, Akiva Schaffer
Stars: Liam Neeson, Pamela Anderson, Paul Walter Hauser
August 21st 

As a longtime fan of the original Naked Gun films starring the unforgettable Leslie Nielsen as Lt. Frank Drebin, I was both curious and hopeful walking into this modern reboot.

This time, we meet Frank Drebin Jr., played by Liam Neeson, who steps into his father’s oversized shoes as the new, clumsy-but-committed cop.

What unfolds is a riotous, absurdist homage packed with slapstick gags, visual puns, and the kind of comedic chaos that would make the original creators proud.

Seth MacFarlane, the man behind Family Guy and Ted, co-wrote and produced this updated take — fitting, given how much he’s publicly admired the original Naked Gun series.

Under the direction of Akiva Schaffer (Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping), the film leans into nostalgia while playing it straight-faced, which is exactly the point.

The opening scene sets the tone immediately: Drebin Jr., mid-disguise, thwarts a wild bank heist — and from that moment on, it’s an unapologetic rollercoaster of over-the-top scenarios, absurd plot twists, and rapid-fire one-liners. The film knows what it is — and delights in it.

Liam Neeson, surprisingly, holds his own in the deadpan comedy arena. He’s joked that this might be the “dumbest film he’s ever done,” but it’s said with affection — and the joke lands because he commits to the bit. His stoic presence makes the ridiculous even funnier.

A standout return to the screen is Pamela Anderson, who brings a grounded charm and spark to the film. With a more natural, organic presence these days, Anderson fits this world perfectly — adding glamour, wit, and a wink to the camera without ever overplaying it.

Also worth noting is Paul Walter Hauser, who brings his unique comedic timing to the ensemble, delivering solid support in the chaos.

Fans of the original series will appreciate the nods: ridiculous gadgetry, mistaken identities, and yes — bathroom jokes.

When the original Naked Gun launched in 1988, it was a critical and box office smash, spawning two sequels:

The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991)

The Naked Gun 33⅓: The Final Insult (1994)

This new installment looks set to follow in those same hilarious footsteps. It’s escapist entertainment in its purest form — and in today’s world, where everything feels heavier, this kind of joyfully stupid comedy is just what we need.

Will it win awards? Probably not. Will it win fans? Absolutely. I wouldn’t be surprised if this is just the beginning of a new era of Naked Gun mayhem — and frankly, I’m here for it.