The beloved slapstick series The Naked Gun has returned to theaters, this time featuring action star Liam Neeson stepping into the comedic shoes of Frank Drebin Jr. Released in 2025, the film injects fresh life into the franchise by blending Neeson’s serious-actor background with the classic absurd humor originally established by Leslie Nielsen. Early reviews praise Neeson’s performance, applauding the movie’s comedic timing and its resonance with fans of the genre.
The film’s release has sparked curiosity about whether Neeson could successfully follow Nielsen’s iconic portrayal. According to critics, Neeson not only meets the challenge but revitalizes the series with a modern edge, securing a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 16 reviews. This impressive reception affirms that slapstick comedy can still thrive today, disproving the notion that the style has become outdated.
Critical Response Highlights a High-Paced, Laugh-Filled Experience
Reviews have celebrated the movie’s rich comedic content, labeling it full of relentless humor that keeps audiences entertained from start to finish. Some critics have gone so far as to call it “balls-to-the-wall funny” and noted it boasts one of the highest joke-to-minute ratios seen since films like Jackass Forever. The film has been described as the
“gut-busting comedy we need right now,”
emphasizing its timely appeal amid a climate where audiences are seeking lighthearted entertainment.
While Neeson is recognized for honoring Nielsen’s legacy, reviewers agree that he charts his own distinctive path rather than trying to replicate the original. This approach marks a new and promising phase in Neeson’s career as he forays into the action-comedy genre. Film commentator Aidan Kelley from Collider remarked,
“From a pure comedic level, The Naked Gun is not only one of the most consistently funny films of 2025, but it’s arguably just as funny as the first three.”
Why Liam Neeson Was the Natural Choice to Revive Frank Drebin Jr.
The Naked Gun franchise originated from the television show Police Squad! featuring Leslie Nielsen’s unforgettable Lt. Frank Drebin. The series was short-lived but left a lasting impact, eventually inspiring the iconic movie trilogy. After decades, Liam Neeson now assumes the torch as Frank Drebin Jr., aiming to introduce the franchise to a new generation. Seth MacFarlane, the film’s producer known for his affection for 1980s comedy, explained that casting Neeson was obvious because of the unique qualities he brings to the role.
MacFarlane told Entertainment Weekly,
“Liam Neeson is probably the only actor alive in the 21st century who could do what Leslie Nielsen did, largely because that kind of actor is not something that we’re really generating a lot of in Hollywood anymore. [He’s] larger than life on screen and yet so honest, two things that don’t always mesh, but he’s really able to be that kind of an on-camera powerhouse.”
Main Cast Members Supporting the Revival
The movie features Liam Neeson in the lead role of Frank Drebin Jr., supported by a diverse cast that blends comedy and star power. Pamela Anderson plays the character Beth, while Paul Walter Hauser takes on the role of Captain Ed. Additionally, actor Kevin Durand is part of the cast, adding further depth to the film’s ensemble.
The combination of Neeson’s gravitas with the comedic talents of these supporting actors contributes to the film’s dynamic and high-energy tone, enhancing its appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.
The Impact and Future Prospects of The Naked Gun Reboot
The overwhelmingly positive critical reception indicates that The Naked Gun’s return with Liam Neeson is more than a nostalgic attempt; it represents a successful reinvention of a classic comedy series. By securing a flawless score on Rotten Tomatoes and resonating deeply with comedy fans, the movie proves that slapstick humor can still thrive when handled with the right talent and timing.
This success could pave the way for future installments, potentially establishing a new franchise era with Neeson as the comedic lead. It also showcases the possibility of blending traditional comedy styles with contemporary filmmaking, promising further innovation in the genre.
As audiences continue to seek humor that balances silliness with charismatic performances, Liam Neeson’s Naked Gun revival stands as a hopeful example of how classic franchises can be thoughtfully modernized to meet today’s entertainment demands.
