Before the release of Liam Neeson’s The Naked Gun reboot, comedy enthusiasts should take the opportunity to watch the original trilogy starring Leslie Nielsen. This reboot, expected in 2025, generates excitement largely because of Neeson, whose serious action roles contrast hilariously with the absurd slapstick tone of the Naked Gun series. His trademark deadpan delivery, rarely seen outside of tense cop dramas, brings a fresh but familiar tone to this parody world.
The 1988 original, The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!, followed the innovative approach of parodying police procedurals with complete seriousness. Leslie Nielsen’s character, Frank Drebin, performed outrageous physical comedy with a perfectly straight face, which became the foundation of the series’ charm. Early reactions to Neeson’s reboot suggest he successfully channels this same understated humor, maintaining the franchise’s legacy.
Where to Stream All Three Original Naked Gun Films Now
For those eager to prepare for the new film, all three installments of the Naked Gun trilogy are currently streaming on Paramount+. These films are not only essential comedy classics but also narratively connected to the reboot, as revealed in recent trailers. Liam Neeson’s character is portrayed as Frank Drebin’s son, creating a direct link to the original series, making watching the trilogy a form of viewing prep.
The trilogy includes The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! (1988), The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991), and Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult (1994). Despite parody comedies waning in popularity since the early 2000s, this series elevated the genre with a blend of slapstick, puns, rapid-fire gags, satire, and surreal humor, delivering consistent laughter for decades.
Even if some actors like Cody Rhodes appear in smaller roles in the reboot, their presence alongside Neeson adds an extra layer of excitement for fans anticipating the fresh take on this comedic universe.
Breakdown of Runtime and Availability of Each Naked Gun Film
Each of the original films offers a tight runtime that keeps the stories lively and fast-paced, ensuring the comedy never drags. The first two films run just 85 minutes each, while the third is slightly shorter at 82 minutes. The upcoming reboot is set to mirror the classic runtime with an 85-minute length, promising a similar brisk comedic experience.
These manageable runtimes combined with the streaming availability on one platform make it easy for viewers to catch up on the originals without a significant time commitment.
Main Cast Members of the Upcoming Reboot and Their Roles
The reboot features Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr., stepping confidently into the legendary role first made famous by Leslie Nielsen. Pamela Anderson returns to the franchise as Beth, a character familiar to fans of the original. Paul Walter Hauser plays Captain Ed, bringing his unique comedic style to the project. Additionally, Kevin Durand appears in the cast, adding depth to the new ensemble.
The Enduring Legacy and Future of the Naked Gun Series
As anticipation builds around the new Naked Gun movie, the original trilogy remains a definitive source of inspiration and humor for comedy lovers. Its influence on the parody genre is significant, elevating a style often overlooked by mainstream audiences. While modern parodies tend to be short-form and fleeting, the Naked Gun films offer a timeless combination of clever writing, physical comedy, and irreverent humor that few productions have matched.
The reboot’s upcoming release represents a hopeful revival of this cherished comedic style, with Liam Neeson’s involvement signaling a thoughtful yet optimistic continuation of the series. Fans can expect to see the tradition of deadpan humor and slapstick carried forward while introducing fresh elements for a new audience.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Liam Neeson’s religion?
A. He was raised in a Catholic household and got his name, Liam, from a priest in the area. He has three sisters: Elizabeth, Bernadette, and Rosaleen.
