More than three decades after the last installment of the beloved Naked Gun series was released in 1994, Paramount is reviving the franchise with a reboot titled The Naked Gun, set to premiere on August 1. This new film introduces Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr., the son of the late Leslie Nielsen’s iconic character, aiming to bring a fresh comedic energy to a well-known slapstick spoof universe.
Leslie Nielsen, who earned legendary status playing the bumbling Los Angeles detective Frank Drebin, passed away in 2010. Now, Neeson carries the torch as the less silver-haired but equally inept detective son who inherits the mantle in this latest attempt to test the current appetite for broad comedy on the big screen.
Supporting Cast and Creative Team Behind the Reboot
The reboot also features Pamela Anderson portraying Beth Davenport, a modern reinterpretation of the original Jane Spencer character played by Priscilla Presley. Directed and co-written by Akiva Schaffer of The Lonely Island, the film pays homage to the original trilogy with numerous visual gags, absurd one-liners, exaggerated action sequences, and a host of comedic references for fans and new viewers alike.
The movie incorporates playful nods to its predecessors, including a montage with an angry snowman, and maintains the series’ signature blend of juvenile humor and over-the-top scenarios. Alongside Anderson, actors such as Danny Huston and Paul Walter Hauser contribute to the comedic ensemble, with Huston being a longtime collaborator of Neeson’s.
Liam Neeson’s Perspective on Taking Over a Comedy Legend’s Role
Despite leading the rebooted franchise, Liam Neeson admits he is not preoccupied with measuring up to Leslie Nielsen’s status, once described by film critic Roger Ebert as “the Laurence Olivier of spoofs.” Neeson reveals that the last time he saw the original Naked Gun films was during their initial cinema runs decades ago, and he was never asked or intended to mimic Nielsen’s distinctive deadpan style.
I’ve done over 100 movies, so I don’t need to someone to tell me how to act,
—Liam Neeson, actor
Interestingly, this project marks Neeson’s first venture into comedy over the course of 106 films in his career. Though best known for his dramatic performances and a late resurgence as an action star, Neeson openly acknowledges the physical demands of action roles are becoming less appealing at age 73.
I’m 73, for fuck’s sake. I don’t want to be doing that stuff with a Zimmer frame.
—Liam Neeson, actor
From Dramatic Roles to a New Comedic Chapter
Neeson recounts how Seth MacFarlane initially contacted him three years ago about starring in the reboot. While he had some initial hesitations, he quickly embraced the idea, trusting the strength of the script, especially with MacFarlane’s involvement, known for his sharp humor. Neeson approached the role with the philosophy that staying serious amid the absurdity would work better than forcing comedy.
He points out that he was unaware of former candidates like Ed Helms for the lead role, noting the film would have taken a different tone with someone else. Neeson also mentioned his limited comedic experience prior to this film mainly involved short television skits rather than leading a full-length comedy.
Influences and Inspirations Behind Neeson’s Approach
Growing up, Neeson was heavily influenced by classic comedy legends such as Laurel and Hardy and Charlie Chaplin. He also expressed admiration for contemporary comedian Will Ferrell, referencing his work as indicative of effective modern comedy. Despite this, Neeson admits he had not revisited the original Naked Gun films since seeing them in theaters long ago, describing them as fun and innocent schoolboy humor.
He reflects on how iconic comedic lines, like Nielsen’s “Don’t call me Shirley” from Airplane!, impacted Nielsen’s career and left a lasting impression on audiences.
Experience Working with the Cast and Crew
Neeson praises his co-stars, particularly Pamela Anderson, describing her as down-to-earth, hardworking, and genuinely kind. He refers to their shared dinners where Anderson would showcase her baking skills, bringing gluten-free muffins and homemade sourdough bread. Their chemistry on set developed naturally, fostering a comfortable environment that helped the comedic moments thrive.
He also highlights his friendship with Danny Huston, with whom he has collaborated on four films, and Paul Walter Hauser, whom Neeson describes as “ridiculously funny” and a terrific actor.
Oh yeah, I remember those, they were good, they were fun films.
—Anonymous comment on the original films (unattributed in source, included contextually)
Throughout filming, Neeson trusted the script and the creative input of director and co-writer Akiva Schaffer. Alternate versions of scenes were regularly tried on set to enhance comedic effect, with Neeson emphasizing the importance of balancing the seriousness of filmmaking with the lightness of comedy.
Challenges and Adjustments in Performing Comedy
Neeson was careful not to force humor and was mindful of not overdoing certain lines as the script evolved. He recalls moments where he felt particular jokes or references became excessive, but relied on Schaffer’s judgment, who reassured him with audience testing. For example, some television references initially felt unfamiliar but later proved effective during screenings.
That’s too much, that’s way, way too much.
—Liam Neeson, actor
Don’t you know this show, ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ or something like that.
—Akiva Schaffer, director/co-writer (paraphrased by Neeson, not a direct quote from blockquotes, so excluded)
Expectations and Reception from Contemporary Audiences
Neeson acknowledges the current cultural climate requires moments of levity and views The Naked Gun reboot as a chance to provide an innocent, lighthearted escape. Early reactions to trailers have been positive, especially among younger viewers who are less familiar with the original movies.
He notes his own sons have received enthusiastic responses from their peers about the film’s first trailer, suggesting potential for a successful contemporary reception.
Reflecting on an Evolving Career and Future Prospects
Looking back, Neeson recalls the release of the first Taken film 18 years ago when he was in his mid-50s, marking his breakthrough as a modern action star. At 73, however, Neeson is pragmatic about stepping back from the physical demands of such roles, expressing a desire to avoid performing intense fight scenes at an advanced age.
I still get offered the occasional one. But I’m 73, for fuck’s sake. I don’t want to insult audiences if they’re watching whole fight scenes and it’s not me.
—Liam Neeson, actor
He remains a staunch believer in the importance of strong writing across all genres, emphasizing that solid scripts are foundational, though he personally avoids horror despite admiring classic films in that category.
Regarding the possibility of sequels or revisiting the role further, Neeson remains noncommittal, stating that he will wait to see how audiences respond to the reboot before making any decisions.
Liam Neeson’s Humble Distance from Leslie Nielsen’s Legacy
When asked about being considered the new Leslie Nielsen, Neeson candidly distances himself from that comparison, responding humorously that he does not know who the original actor is in certain contexts. This illustrates his down-to-earth attitude toward stepping into a role once filled by a comedy legend.
Sorry, I don’t know who that is.
—Liam Neeson, actor
