Liam Neeson is the "New Version" of Frank Drebin in 'Naked Gun' Reboot Trailer

The original 'Naked Gun' trilogy, spun off from the short-lived 'Police Squad!' TV series, became a cornerstone of parody and slapstick comedy in the late 80s and early 90s, largely thanks to Leslie Nielsen's pitch-perfect deadpan delivery as the incompetent Lt. Frank Drebin.

This reboot, helmed by Akiva Schaffer with a script co-written by Schaffer, Dan Gregor, and Doug Mand (who previously collaborated on 'Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers'), aims to recapture that zany spirit. The teaser trailer offers glimpses, including Drebin Jr. clumsily foiling a bank robbery disguised as a schoolgirl and introducing himself as "Frank Drebin, Police Squad... The new version." Extended footage shown at CinemaCon reportedly leaned into the absurdity, featuring Neeson beating a man with his own dismembered arms and visual gags involving Pamela Anderson's character. There were also nods to the original, including a reference to O.J. Simpson's character, Nordberg.

The involvement of Schaffer and producer Seth MacFarlane signals a commitment to the irreverent, gag-filled style of the original. The positive reaction at CinemaCon suggests the filmmakers might be hitting the right notes, blending nostalgia with fresh comedic energy led by an unexpected star.

Liam Neeson takes the lead as Frank Drebin Jr. The cast also includes Pamela Anderson, Paul Walter Hauser, CCH Pounder, Kevin Durand, Cody Rhodes, Liza Koshy, Eddie Yu, and Danny Huston.

The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on August 1, 2025.

Yes, it's set in the same universe. Liam Neeson plays the son of Leslie Nielsen's original character, Lt. Frank Drebin.

What are your first impressions of Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr.? Do you think this reboot can capture the magic of the original? Let us know your thoughts!

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