The iconic slapstick mayhem of The Naked Gun is making its comeback, and based on the new trailer, the reboot promises to deliver a comedic spectacle with fresh twists and familiar chaos. The film, directed by Akiva Schaffer (Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers), breathes new life into the celebrated franchise, this time with Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson leading the charge.
A Classic Returns (With Its Quirks in Tow)
For fans of the original Naked Gun and its sequels, the reboot taps into the nostalgia of the ’80s and ’90s slapstick legacy created by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker. Liam Neeson takes on the role of Lt. Frank Drebin Jr., the son of Leslie Nielsen’s unforgettable Frank Drebin, while Pamela Anderson joins as Beth, who enlists Drebin in investigating her brother’s mysterious death (which quickly turns absurd, as expected).
The film retains the franchise’s signature brand of rapid-fire jokes and sight gags while folding in modern-day absurdities that suit its 2025 release. From misunderstandings over Drebin’s request to “take a chair” to overly dramatic standoffs that end in hilariously unexpected ways, the trailer captures the slapstick chaos that fans anticipate.
Meet the Star-Studded Cast of the Naked Gun Reboot
Alongside Neeson and Anderson, the movie boasts a charismatic ensemble. Paul Walter Hauser (Black Bird) is cast as Drebin’s straight-laced partner, while Kevin Durand, Danny Huston, and YouTube star Liza Koshy each add their own comic flair to the mix. Wrestling fans will also spot Cody Rhodes (yes, Dusty Rhodes’ son!) among the cast.
It’s worth noting how Neeson himself has expressed excitement (and initial anxiety) about venturing into comedy. Known more for his brooding action-hero roles (Taken, anyone?), he called this project a refreshing and nerve-wracking departure. And if the trailer’s mix of stone-faced delivery and chaotic antics is anything to go by, we’re here for it.
Pamela Anderson, meanwhile, relishes her role, bringing both humor and allure as Drebin’s unlikely accomplice. The interaction between Neeson’s deadpan and Anderson’s comedic timing is unexpectedly electric, with early reviews teasing that their chemistry is one of the film’s standout elements.
Gags, Laughs, and Throwbacks
Staying true to tradition, The Naked Gun reboot doesn’t shy away from absurd jokes. One memorable moment from the trailer? Drebin mistakenly praising “man’s laughter,” misreading a rap sheet’s “manslaughter” charge. There are also nods to the original installments, with recurring characters updated for today’s audience.
If trailers released at CinemaCon are any preview, fans should buckle in for suggestive humor and ridiculous predicaments, ranging from botched stings to mistaken identity escapades. Whether you’re a veteran fan or new to the Naked Gun’s antics, the reboot seems primed to bridge generational audiences.
Naked Gun: Behind the Scenes
Helmed by Akiva Schaffer, best known for his work with The Lonely Island, and written by Emmy-winning duo Dan Gregor and Doug Mand, the creative team leans heavily into the surreal. Producers Seth MacFarlane and Erica Huggins round out the comedic powerhouse, further raising anticipation for the August 1 premiere.
Can This Reboot Do the Franchise Justice?
It’s not easy to follow the footsteps of Leslie Nielsen and the original creative minds behind The Naked Gun, whose films have been cornerstones of parody humor. While the trailer shows promise, only time will tell if this reboot lands with the same comedic legendary status. The sneak peeks suggest a fresh, zany take on the franchise, which is enough to keep fans curious and perhaps cautiously optimistic.
Of course, if you’re already intrigued, mark your calendars for August 1 and decide for yourself if the laughs live up to Nielsen’s legacy.
Will you be watching? Grab some popcorn and share your love (or skepticism) for this return to absurdity!