Andy Samberg Praises Liam Neeson’s The Naked Gun as “Pure Joy”—A Comedy Revival You Can’t Miss

Andy Samberg has expressed enthusiastic support for the forthcoming The Naked Gun movie, highlighting it as a welcome revival of the classic comedy franchise. The film, featuring Liam Neeson’s surprising turn in a comedic role, is set for release on August 1, and anticipation among fans is growing, especially with Samberg’s glowing remarks.

During an interview with Screen Rant’s Owen Danoff while promoting their animated series Digman!, Samberg and collaborator Neil Campbell discussed The Naked Gun. Director Akiva Schaffer, who frequently works with Samberg and is part of The Lonely Island comedy group, directed the new film, deepening the connection between the projects.

Samberg Describes The Naked Gun as an Abundance of Laughter

Samberg called the movie “pure joy,” praising Schaffer’s direction as a major success. According to Samberg, every screening he attended left viewers delighted with a relentless stream of humor throughout the film. He especially noted the performances of Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson, emphasizing their comedic talent in this fresh yet nostalgic production.

In his full statement, Samberg said:

“We’re not in Naked Gun, but Naked Gun is so good. It’s just pure joy. I mean, I’m biased, obviously; Akiva is my guy. But everyone I’ve seen it with all walked out saying the same thing, which is, like, ‘I didn’t realize how much I missed that feeling of a pure, silly comedy that’s all jokes, wall to wall, in a theater.’ And I went to a lot of friends and family screenings and test screenings–stuff like that. Me and Akiva are always involved in each other’s stuff, and I think he just crushed it. Liam is so funny at it; he’s so good. Pam’s so good at it. I’m really excited for them. I hope everybody goes and sees it because it’s super funny. Album? Hopefully.”

—Andy Samberg, Actor and Comedian

Positive Implications of Samberg’s Remarks for The Naked Gun

Andy Samberg’s enthusiastic praise signals promising prospects for The Naked Gun’s new installment. Known for his roles in successful comedies such as Hot Rod, Pop Star: Never Stop Never Stopping, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Samberg’s endorsement carries weight in the comedy community and suggests the film maintains the trademark humor of its predecessors.

Liam Neeson
Image of: Liam Neeson

Additionally, Samberg’s commendation of Liam Neeson’s comedic performance helps clarify doubts some viewers had due to Neeson’s established reputation in action and drama rather than comedy. This casting choice invokes a connection to Leslie Nielsen, the original star famous for delivering deadpan humor, and Samberg’s comments reassure fans that Neeson’s role lives up to expectations.

Reflections on Samberg’s Involvement and the Film’s Potential Appeal

While Andy Samberg is not part of the cast, his close relationship with director Akiva Schaffer and positive feedback spark excitement about the project’s quality. Given their history of successful collaborations, many are eager to witness Schaffer’s solo directorial efforts on a franchise beloved for its slapstick and absurd humor.

Samberg’s conversation about the film also raises curiosity about his absence in the cast, but it primarily reinforces anticipation for a comedy that delivers “wall to wall” jokes, a rare commodity in today’s film landscape.

What the Future Holds for The Naked Gun Revival

The upcoming film’s August 1 release marks a significant moment for fans of the The Naked Gun series and comedy aficionados alike. Samberg’s praise not only raises expectations but also highlights a renewed interest in pure comedic entertainment amid a market often dominated by other genres.

If the film’s humor and performances live up to the buzz from early viewers and Samberg’s endorsement, it could lead to rejuvenated enthusiasm for both the franchise and the careers involved, possibly encouraging more projects that blend classic slapstick style with contemporary comedic talent.