The Naked Gun (2025)
I was anxiously anticipating this one, and it didn't disappoint. It's full of belly laughs, and although a few of the set-ups don't land, the movie is a riot. A second viewing would be necessary to take in all the gags.
I was curious if
Liam Neeson could handle the comedy playing the clueless Frank Drebin, Leslie Nielson's part in the original films, but he handled it with ease. It was refreshing to see Neeson in a comic role after all the heavy action thrillers he's done.
Pamela Anderson was dynamite as Beth Davenport, Drebin's eventual love interest. No one could have played that part better, and much has been made of the Neeson/Anderson chemistry, both in the movie and off screen.
The story is important only as a vehicle on which to pile all the jokes and sight gags. There is doomsday device which tries to be stolen, that when activated turns all common people viciously against each other, killing everyone off, while a group of billionaires will be safely holed up in a bunker. There are plenty of side stories.
Another highlight is
Danny Huston's portrayal of a billionaire bad guy. He plays the part perfectly. It would have been easy to over play the part, or make it silly. Huston plays it just right, making it seem believable.
I hope they do another "Naked Gun" film. If you haven't had enough genuine laughs in awhile, you'll get some side splitters with this one.
Doc's rating: 8/10
