Leslie Nielsen left an indelible mark as Lieutenant Frank Drebin in “The Naked Gun” trilogy, a role that defined his legacy in comedy. Following the successes of the original films, it may have seemed unthinkable to reboot this beloved franchise. However, director Akiva Schaffer, known for his work with The Lonely Island, has chosen to revive the series with a fresh twist, introducing us to Frank Drebin Jr., played by Liam Neeson.
In this new installment, Neeson portrays the son of Nielsen’s iconic character. While he is primarily recognized for his serious roles in films like “Taken,” the choice to cast him in a comedic role continues the ZAZ tradition of transforming serious actors into comedic stars. Just as Nielsen famously transitioned from drama to slapstick in “Airplane,” Neeson’s casting could surprise audiences looking for humor from unlikely sources.
The film opens with an energetic sequence that pays homage to its predecessors, as Drebin Jr. embarks on a mission while disguised as a Girl Scout, cleverly mixing absurdity and action. Neeson’s character uncovers a conspiracy involving tech billionaire Richard Cane, portrayed by Danny Huston. As the plot unfolds, Drebin, with his partner Ed (Paul Walter Hauser) and the enigmatic Beth (Pamela Anderson), gets embroiled in a mix of comedy, intrigue, and familiar gags reminiscent of the original films.
While the reboot’s storyline closely mirrors the first “Naked Gun” film, it successfully elicits laughs through clever writing and comedic timing, keeping the spirit of the original alive despite the new cast. Neeson’s ability to maintain a deadpan demeanor adds to the film’s charm, and Anderson brings a playful energy reminiscent of her earlier comedic roles.
Fans of the original “Naked Gun” trilogy may find it difficult to measure up to the classic, but the film offers enough humor and nods to the beloved franchise to entertain audiences. With a runtime of 85 minutes filled with absurd hijinks, this reboot finds a way to honor its legacy while bringing a new level of comedy to the forefront.
As viewers venture into this reimagined world, they can expect a lighthearted experience filled with unexpected twists and tributes to the original films, affirming that laughter continues to resonate across generations, no matter how many times the classic narratives are revisited.