Legacy-quel Surprise and a Joke That Stole the Show!

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In 1991, Leslie Nielsen’s character Lt. Frank Drebin expressed a desire for a world where his son, Frank Jr., could engage in various activities – some of which would be unheard of in contemporary humor. Therefore, when the 2025 movie lineup included Liam Neeson’s take on The Naked Gun, I never envisioned it would live up to that very ideal.

Instead, the initial sneak peek for Paramount’s upcoming comedy delivered precisely what was expected – none of the elements that make the original film seem dated from the ’80s. To top it all off, there was a joke that left me feeling like a raccoon rummaging through a baker’s trash: surprised but delighted with the sight.

The Naked Gun’s Going Full Legacy-quel, And That’s Probably For The Best

Following its premiere at CinemaCon 2025 by Paramount Pictures, it’s clear that the humorous sequence featuring directors Akiva Schaffer and Seth MacFarlane’s grand entrance echoes the style of the classic comedy series Police Squad. It was no surprise to us that Frank Jr. (Liam Neeson) would somehow make an appearance, and it came as no shock that a young girl navigating into a hostage situation would be instrumental in the plot.

Watching it unfold was an enjoyable experience, and it cleverly paved the way for the unveiling that “the new installment” of The Naked Gun is actually a continuation (legacy sequel). In this film, we’re introduced to a police station where the younger generation of officers are respectfully honoring their forefathers. Among them is the son of Captain Ed Hocken, portrayed admirably by Paul Walter Hauser.

Given that comedy often follows the “Rule of Three,” and since there were three key cops in David Zucker’s inaugural film for this beloved franchise, I suspect you can guess where the funniest moment in the trailer originates. In essence, just like corn and the San Francisco 49ers’ roster from ’78 to ’79, it packs a punch that’s hard to forget!

O.J. Simpson’s Nordberg Gets A Proper Satirical Send Off

If you were wondering if Pamela Anderson will portray the rebooted character of Frank Drebin Jr.’s mother in this trailer, that’s an essential query. However, the intrigue surrounding how O.J. Simpson’s Nordberg would fit into the continuation of the Naked Gun series was a topic that required exploration – almost like watching him tumble down a steep and potentially painful staircase.

Regardless of whether or not the late Simpson’s legacy was defined by his infamous murder trial and personal struggles, Nordberg’s termination would have been justified. Among the trio of police officers tasked with maintaining order amidst ludicrous schemes beyond their jurisdiction, it was the “Naked Gun” trilogy that relentlessly targeted Nordberg as its main target for humor.

I’m quite taken with the modernized wit and old-school humor reminiscent of the original crew that The Naked Gun offers. Now, I’m curious if Pamela Anderson’s role is connected to a nod or reference to Priscilla Presley’s character, Jane Spencer-Drebin, possibly hinting at a reboot joke.

If the suspicion proves accurate, it adds another point to the legacy-quel’s score, and showcases the hilarious talent of the former Baywatch star. The Naked Gun returns with its classic comedy for a fresh audience on August 1st. It’s now up to Marvel Studios to respond.

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2025-04-03 21:09