The reboot of ‘The Naked Gun’ is here, and Liam Neeson is stepping into the shoes of the legendary Lt. Frank Drebin, originally played by Leslie Nielsen. This film promises to be an outrageously amusing spoof, honoring the legacy of the original while bringing a fresh, modern twist to the beloved franchise. With Pamela Anderson also starring, this promises to be a bizarre and enjoyable ride through the world of 80s LA action movies.
Neeson’s performance is already generating buzz, with many wondering if he will follow Nielsen’s path into full-time spoof comedy. The film cleverly balances homage with new comedic elements, ensuring both fans of the original and new audiences will find something to laugh about. From the outrageous gags to the shallow and pointless scenarios, this reboot aims to deliver pure, unadulterated fun.
This article delves into what makes this reboot a worthy successor, examining Neeson’s portrayal, the comedic writing, and the overall feel of the film. Prepare for a wild ride as we explore ‘The Naked Gun’ reboot.
Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr.
Liam Neeson takes on the role of Det Lt Frank Drebin Jr, the son of Leslie Nielsen’s iconic character. Neeson’s portrayal is a critical element of the reboot’s success. He brings a rumbly-menacing voice, reminiscent of his ‘Taken’ persona, but amplified for comedic effect. The film cleverly plays with Neeson’s established on-screen persona, turning his serious demeanor into a source of humor. While Neeson deadpans impeccably, the question remains whether he can capture the same eerie innocence that Nielsen brought to the original.
Neeson’s challenge is to honor Nielsen’s legacy while making the character his own. The film hints at Drebin Jr. being haunted by his father’s reputation, adding a layer of depth to the comedic narrative. This dynamic allows for both heartfelt moments and opportunities for meta-humor, as Neeson grapples with living up to the legend of his father. The comedic timing and physical comedy are crucial, and Neeson seems poised to deliver on both fronts.
“He is given to making yearning monologues addressed to Drebin Sr’s presence, begging him to send a sign ‘like an owl or something’.”
This line perfectly encapsulates the film’s approach to blending reverence with irreverence.
Humor and Homage to Zucker/Abrahams/Zucker
The reboot doesn’t shy away from its roots, with David Zucker, co-creator of the original ‘Naked Gun’ and ‘Airplane!’ films, contributing to the project. The humor is described as amiably ridiculous, refreshingly shallow, entirely pointless, and guilelessly crass—qualities that defined the original films. The writing team of Akiva Schaffer, Dan Gregor, and Doug Mand ensures that the comedic style remains consistent while adding their own flair.
One of the highlights is the succession of absurdist scenarios, reminiscent of the Zucker/Abrahams/Zucker style. A classic homage is a moment of mayhem followed by a wide-shot of people queueing up obediently for violence, echoing a similar scene from ‘Airplane!’. These moments of self-awareness and comedic absurdity are what make the ‘Naked Gun’ franchise so enduring.
The film also includes sensational riffs on Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Sex and the City, showcasing its ability to blend classic and contemporary humor. The reference to OJ Simpson, who appeared in the original films, is another example of the reboot’s willingness to push boundaries and deliver outrageous gags.
The Supporting Cast
The supporting cast plays a crucial role in enhancing the comedic landscape of the film. Paul Walter Hauser takes on the role of Capt Ed Hocken Jr, the son of Drebin Sr’s partner. Hauser’s stolid demeanor contrasts perfectly with Neeson’s comedic performance, creating a dynamic duo that promises plenty of laughs.
Pamela Anderson stars as Beth, a true-crime novelist who becomes Drebin’s love interest. The chemistry between Neeson and Anderson is highlighted by an uproariously extended winter-sports-themed pop video, a nod to the over-the-top romance montages of the 80s. Danny Huston plays Richard Cane, the sinister Muskalike plutocrat, adding a touch of villainy to the comedic chaos.
The ensemble cast works together to create a world that feels both familiar and fresh. Each character brings their own unique comedic timing and quirks, contributing to the overall absurdity and enjoyment of the film.
Visuals and Style
The new ‘Naked Gun’ adopts the look and feel of an 80s LA action movie, drawing inspiration from films like ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and ‘Terminator’. This visual style adds another layer of humor, as the film juxtaposes serious action tropes with absurd comedic scenarios. The production design, costumes, and cinematography all contribute to creating a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a modern sensibility.
The winter-sports-themed pop video, representing Frank and Beth’s romance, is a prime example of the film’s visual humor. This over-the-top sequence parodies the romantic montages of the 80s, complete with cheesy music and exaggerated visuals. These visual gags enhance the overall comedic experience, making the film a feast for the eyes as well as the funny bone.
The film’s attention to detail in recreating the 80s aesthetic demonstrates a commitment to honoring the original films while also creating something new and unique.
The “Extraordinarily Bizarre and Offensive Tribute”
One particular moment in the film stands out for its sheer audacity. When Drebin first sees Beth, he has an ecstatic voiceover about her person, culminating in what is described as a quite extraordinarily bizarre and offensive tribute. This line caused the audience to go into gibbering shock, and its memory recurred like PTSD throughout the film’s running time.
This moment exemplifies the film’s willingness to push boundaries and take risks with its humor. It’s a testament to the comedic writing and the actors’ commitment to delivering even the most outrageous lines with conviction. While some may find the tribute offensive, it’s clear that the filmmakers are aiming for shock value and are not afraid to cross the line for a laugh.
This scene is likely to be one of the most talked-about moments in the film, sparking debate and discussion about the limits of comedy.
Conclusion
The ‘Naked Gun’ reboot, starring Liam Neeson, is a loving tribute to the original films while carving out its own identity. Neeson’s portrayal of Frank Drebin Jr. is both respectful and hilarious, and the supporting cast adds depth and humor to the comedic landscape. The film’s visual style, absurd scenarios, and willingness to push boundaries make it a worthy successor to the ‘Naked Gun’ legacy.
Ultimately, the new Naked Gun exists for the same reason as the old ones: it’s a laugh, disposable, forgettable, and enjoyable. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or new to the world of Frank Drebin, this reboot promises a wild and hilarious ride. So, prepare to laugh, cringe, and maybe even be a little bit shocked by this outrageous and amusing spoof.
The Naked Gun is out on 1 August in the UK and US, and on 21 August in Australia. Don’t miss it!
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