The Naked Gun franchise, a comedic juggernaut of the late ’80s and early ’90s, has been gloriously resurrected in this 2025 reboot starring Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson. Directed by the razor-sharp comedic mind of Akiva Schaffer, with a generous dose of Seth MacFarlane’s irreverent influence, this iteration of The Naked Gun proves that slapstick absurdity and deadpan humor can still leave audiences in stitches. I found myself laughing out loud at countless gags, a testament to the film’s ability to honor its roots while injecting a fresh, modern sensibility that feels perfectly timed for today’s audiences.
Liam Neeson, known for his brooding action roles, is an unexpected but brilliant choice as Detective Frank Drebin, the bumbling yet oddly competent cop originally immortalized by Leslie Nielsen. Neeson leans into the absurdity with a stoic delivery that makes every ridiculous line land with maximum impact. His gravelly voice and intense demeanor amplify the humor, especially when he’s obliviously navigating chaotic crime scenes or delivering nonsensical monologues about love and justice.
Pamela Anderson, as the sultry Jane Spencer, brings a delightful mix of self-aware charm and comedic timing to the table. Her chemistry with Neeson is electric, playing up the classic Naked Gun dynamic of earnest romance amid utter chaos. Anderson’s ability to wink at her own ’90s icon status while delivering sharp one-liners and physical comedy makes her a standout.
Akiva Schaffer’s direction is the secret sauce that makes this revival work so well. Known for his work with The Lonely Island and Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping, Schaffer brings a keen understanding of how to modernize classic comedy tropes without losing their essence. The film is packed with visual gags, wordplay, and absurd scenarios at a breakneck speed that keeps you laughing before you can overthink the ridiculousness. Seth MacFarlane’s influence as a producer is evident in the film’s willingness to push boundaries while staying true to the spirit of the original. The script, co-written by Schaffer and a team of comedy heavyweights, is packed with the kind of irreverent humor MacFarlane excels at, yet it never feels mean-spirited.
The supporting cast is a comedic goldmine, with standout performances that amplify the film’s chaotic energy. From a cameo-laden roster of modern comedy stars to quirky character actors playing eccentric villains and clueless bystanders, every role is perfectly cast. The film’s villain, a tech mogul with a penchant for world domination (and terrible puns), provides a hilarious foil to Drebin’s earnest incompetence. These secondary characters keep the momentum going, ensuring there’s never a dull moment in the film’s tight 90-minute runtime.
What makes this Naked Gun truly special is its heart. Beneath the relentless gags and absurd scenarios, there’s a genuine affection for the characters and their world. Neeson and Anderson’s chemistry grounds the film, making you root for their ridiculous romance even as the world around them collapses into chaos. The film never takes itself too seriously, but it respects its audience enough to deliver a cohesive story that ties the laughs together.
In an era where comedies often struggle to balance nostalgia with innovation, The Naked Gun is a triumph. Akiva Schaffer, with a nod to Seth MacFarlane’s comedic sensibilities, has crafted a film that honors its predecessors while carving out its own place in the pantheon of great comedies.
The Naked Gun arrives in cinemas 21 August 2025.
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