Reviving a beloved parody franchise is no easy task, and The Naked Gun (2025) proves just how difficult striking that balance between nostalgia and reinvention can be. Directed with a clear affection for the original trilogy, the film delivers plenty of slapstick and sight gags, but often struggles to make them land in a modern setting.
The plot centers on Frank Drebin Jr. (Liam Neeson), son of the late, legendary detective Frank Drebin. Pulled reluctantly into the world of crime-solving, Drebin Jr. is tasked with stopping an elaborate plot that threatens national security. His investigation pairs him with a glamorous insider, played by Pamela Anderson, whose loyalties remain uncertain. As the two stumble from one chaotic scenario to the next, their working relationship quickly transforms into romance, though the film often seems more invested in showcasing their off-screen chemistry than in fleshing out the case at hand.
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| (Paramount Pictures) |
The film’s comedic approach remains faithful to the original Naked Gun style: exaggerated pratfalls, absurd misunderstandings, and a steady stream of visual gags. However, while this brand of slapstick may resonate with die-hard fans, the execution here frequently feels outdated. The pacing drags in places, and many of the jokes come across as forced rather than effortless.
Casting Liam Neeson in the lead role was a bold choice, though one that doesn’t entirely pay off. Neeson, celebrated for his commanding performances in action and thriller films, struggles to adapt to the exaggerated comedic tone. His delivery often feels too stiff, and the physical comedy doesn’t play to his strengths. Pamela Anderson, on the other hand, proves far more comfortable with the material. She leans into the absurdity with ease, providing a playful and charismatic performance that feels in tune with the film’s intentions.
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| (Paramount Pictures) |
A clear highlight is Paul Walter Hauser, who steals nearly every scene he’s in. With sharp timing and a knack for balancing ridiculousness with charm, Hauser injects a much-needed burst of energy whenever the film threatens to stall. His performance feels effortless and authentic, often standing out against the more uneven turns from the leads.
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| (Paramount Pictures) |
Visually, the film remains loyal to the aesthetic of the original trilogy. The cinematography captures the bright, exaggerated style fans will recognize, though it brings little innovation. The direction mirrors the zany tone that defined the franchise decades ago, but in doing so, it risks feeling more like an imitation than an evolution
Ultimately, The Naked Gun (2025) is a film likely to divide audiences. Those with an affection for old-school slapstick may find comfort in its nostalgic callbacks, while viewers less fond of the genre may find the humor grating and the story uninspired. Despite flashes of brilliance — particularly from Paul Walter Hauser and a surprisingly game Pamela Anderson — the film often feels more like an awkward experiment than a successful revival.
Rating: 2.5/5 — A nostalgic reboot weighed down by forced comedy, with only a few standout performances keeping it afloat.
The Naked Gun Releases August 1st In Cinemas Worldwide
Check out the Trailer Below: