The upcoming film The Naked Gun brings a modern twist to the beloved 1980s and ’90s slapstick franchise, with Liam Neeson stepping into the absurd world of crime-fighting as Frank Drebin Jr., son of the original detective portrayed by Leslie Nielsen. Directed by Akiva Schaffer, the reboot-sequel pairs Neeson with Pamela Anderson, who plays the seductive and mysterious Beth. The trailer, which recently dropped, teases a barrage of over-the-top gags and risqué humor, hinting at a film that’s both a homage and a reinvention.
Pamela Anderson and Liam Neeson Shine Together in Hilarious, Star-Studded Crime Comedy
In a surprising but inspired casting move, Pamela Anderson joins Neeson as his leading lady, and their onscreen chemistry has quickly drawn attention. Anderson’s Beth opens the trailer with a serious claim—”I think someone murdered my brother”—which promptly leads to a series of comedic exchanges. The cast also includes Paul Walter Hauser, CCH Pounder, Kevin Durand, Cody Rhodes, Liza Koshy, Eddie Yu, and Danny Huston, promising a lively and diverse ensemble to support the lead duo.
Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson Bring Slapstick Back in Star-Packed Naked Gun RebootPamela Anderson has spoken warmly about her time filming with Neeson, calling him “the perfect gentleman” and praising his respectful, kind demeanor. She noted how his presence and professionalism brought out the best in her on set. Neeson, too, returned the admiration, calling Anderson funny, easy to work with, and ego-free. His glowing remarks even included a tongue-in-cheek confession: “I’m madly in love with her.”
Director Akiva Schaffer Blends Classic Slapstick with Fresh Talent and Comedic Surprises
Akiva Schaffer, known for his comedic work with The Lonely Island, praised Neeson for his gravitas and ability to commit fully to slapstick humor. In an April interview, Schaffer called him “one of the last great actors with old school gravitas.” Meanwhile, he described Anderson as “so funny and smart,” expressing excitement about how audiences will be surprised by her comedic talent. The script, co-written by Schaffer, Dan Gregor, and Doug Mand, is set to blend clever writing with physical humor.
The Naked Gun, distributed by Paramount Pictures, is set to arrive in theaters on August 1, 2025. The trailer teases a wild mix of mystery, action, and outrageous humor, driven by the unexpected but entertaining duo of Neeson and Anderson. As the summer movie season ramps up, this reboot makes its mark with a blend of classic nostalgia and fresh comedic flair, promising plenty of laughs for both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.