You can consider me a proud and unapologetic fan of “The Naked Gun” movie trilogy. The intentionally silly crime spoofs took their inspiration from the 1982 television “Police Squad!” which embraced the absurd humor of the comedy classic “Airplane!”. A key reason for the trilogy’s success was the late, great Leslie Nielsen who so effortlessly channeled Lieutenant Frank Drebin’s idiocy and charm. Now some thirty years later we’re getting a fourth film and the first trailer isn’t very encouraging.
Simply titled “The Naked Gun” (again), the newest installment has Seth MacFarlane producing and Akiva Schaffer directing. It sees Liam Neeson playing Frank Drebin Jr. and Paul Walter Hauser playing Frank’s partner, Captain Ed Hocken Jr. – the son of the character originally played by George Kennedy. Pamela Anderson, Danny Huston, Kevin Durand, CCH Pounder, and Busta Rhymes also star. Unfortunately the attractive cast can’t overcome the remarkably dull attempts of humor and complete lack of charm. Granted, it’s just a trailer, but it’s not a great first impression.
“The Naked Gun” lands in theaters on August 1st. Check out the trailer below and let me know if you’ll be seeing it or taking a pass.
Keith & the Movies 
I don’t see how they dare continue without Leslie. He was the soul of the movies.
I 100% agree.
seems like Liam may he a good fit. To pull off that comedy with a straight face in character cannot be easy. I say give him a chance. To many revamps of bits from the original. Take a chair scene for example should have not made the cut.
I’m assuming this was in reply to my comment?
Nope, no chances are being given…
Yes I will be seeing this. It will be interesting to see how this plays out. The original Naked Gun was funny for many reasons. This new one doesn’t have Leslie Nielsen but it hopefully has enough humorous situations.
I haven’t decided. As a big fan of the originals, this trailer was off-putting for a number of ways.
Honestly, I can’t stop watching the trailer. It is goddamn hilarious. Plus, who knew that Liam Neeson has very nice thighs.
I couldn’t hardly bear it. It felt like such a cheap knockoff. Leslie for life.
I love Leslie Nielsen too but the idea of Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr. is ridiculously hilarious. He understands what to do. It’s all about misdirection and playing it straight.
I actually like the casting. It’s everything else that landed with a thud (for me).
Wasn’t a fan of the old ones, so I’ll be moving right along!
I can see why this one wouldn’t look all that appealing.
I’d rather wait for a sequel to Rat Race.