Liam Neeson Revives “The Naked Gun” with Hilarious Precision in One of the Best Comedy Sequels Ever

In 2022, I sat down with Liam Neeson via Zoom to discuss his action thriller “Memory.” While I was hoping he’d hint at a return to the Star Wars universe, Neeson surprised me by revealing his desire to explore comedy—specifically through a reboot of The Naked Gun, a project in development by Seth MacFarlane. Now, three years later, “The Naked Gun” has arrived, and it’s so laugh-out-loud hysterical that it would make Leslie Nielsen proud.

This isn’t your typical cop movie. It opens with a routine bank robbery, only to be interrupted by a little girl with a lollipop—who removes a mask to reveal Lt. Frank Drebin Jr. (Neeson), son of the legendary detective. In a flash, he comically takes down the robbers. Director Akiva Schaffer, who co-wrote the film with Dan Gregor and Doug Mand, wastes no time reestablishing the absurdist, irreverent tone of the original franchise.

True to form, the movie thrives on physical gags, self-referential humor, and moments so over-the-top they defy logic. Like the original, it revels in using obvious dummies in stunts, paying homage to the Police Squad legacy. Neeson, who reinvented himself as an action star post-Taken (2008–2018), fully embraces the ridiculousness here, offering what may be the most pitch-perfect comedic performance of his career.

Producer Seth MacFarlane, who previously collaborated with Neeson on A Million Ways to Die in the West, Family Guy, and Ted 2, knew exactly what he was doing. Neeson’s deadpan delivery turns absurd dialogue into comic gold. His appearance in Ted 2, nervously buying a box of Trix cereal, hinted at his comedic timing, and this movie fully delivers on that promise.

In fact, Neeson made a surprise appearance at my screening, jokingly promising “no zombies, no superheroes, and no Pedro Pascal.” As he exited, he leaned toward my row and growled, “You’d better laugh.” This sums up his comedic approach—playing it dead serious in a completely ludicrous world, which only makes the humor hit harder.

His performance echoes that of the late Leslie Nielsen: completely unaware of the absurd chaos surrounding him, yet fully responsible for much of it. Neeson’s comic timing is flawless, and the writing brilliantly expands on the original’s literal humor, adding fresh layers.

Pamela Anderson is another revelation. After a Broadway debut in “Chicago” (2022) and a dramatic breakout in “The Last Showgirl” (2024), she returns to comedy with flair. Her on-screen chemistry with Neeson is charming, especially during a romantic montage, and it’s heartwarming to learn their collaboration led to a real-life romance.

Paul Walter Hauser also shines as Captain Ed Hocken Jr., delivering standout comedic moments. Danny Huston, known for villainous roles, embraces a more absurd antagonist here with gusto.

The story? Nothing groundbreaking. There’s a world-ending device, reminiscent of the plot in “Kingsman: The Secret Service”. But the narrative takes a backseat to the gags, which land more often than not. At just 85 minutes, the film never overstays its welcome—unlike the bloated “Happy Gilmore 2.”

Importantly, 95% of the jokes are original, and while there are cameos and callbacks, they’re not leaned on for laughs. One particular reference to “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” stands out, made funnier by the fact that Lorne Balfe, composer for both films, tributes his own work during the scene. It keeps building and building, becoming one of the film’s most memorable sequences.

“The Naked Gun” stands tall as one of the greatest comedy sequels ever made, reviving a beloved franchise with fresh energy, sharp writing, and a committed cast. It’s a legacy sequel done right—best enjoyed with a chili dog and a cup of coffee.

SCORE: 8/10