Introduction to The Naked Gun Franchise
The classic Slapstick Police Comedy franchise, The Naked Gun, is set to return to cinemas in a few weeks, reviving the series that first debuted in 1982. Notably, Andy Samberg’s participation in the project is remarkable, given his role in the sitcom police series Brooklyn Nine-Nine and his work with The Lonely Island, alongside director Akiva Schaffer, on various comedic projects.
Andy Samberg’s Endorsement of The Naked Gun
In an interview with Screenrant, Samberg expressed his enthusiasm for The Naked Gun, stating that although he does not appear in the film, he had the opportunity to view it during private test screenings. Similar to producer Seth MacFarlane, Samberg misses the comedy style of the 80s and praises the upcoming film, particularly highlighting the performances of Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson. Samberg noted, "We’re not in The Naked Gun, but The Naked Gun is so good. It’s just pure joy. I mean, I am obviously biased. Akiva is my guy. But everyone I’ve seen it with, everyone who’s seen it, has said the same thing, which is how much they haven’t noticed how much they’ve missed the feeling of a pure, silly comedy that’s just joking, in a theater."
The Plot and Franchise Background
The Naked Gun is the fourth film in the Police Squad! franchise, created by the filmmaking trio David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker. The new film takes place years after the events of The Naked Gun 33⅓: The Final Insult, with Liam Neeson playing the adult version of Frank Drebin’s son, Frank Drebin Jr., who follows in his father’s footsteps and becomes a member of the police squad.
What is the Police Squad! Franchise About?
First published in 1982, Police Squad! is a media franchise that includes four films and a television program. The first entry in the franchise is the TV series Police Squad!, which starred Leslie Nielsen as Frank Drebin, alongside Alan North, Peter Lupus, Ed Williams, and William Duell. Although the show was canceled after only one season with six episodes, it received high praise from fans and critics, with an average score of 90% and a 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Film Releases and Reception
After the TV series, the franchise released its first film in 1988, titled The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!. The film achieved success upon its release, earning over 78 million US dollars and leading to two sequels before the 2025 reboot. The Naked Gun is set to enter cinemas on August 1, 2025. Meanwhile, Brooklyn Nine-Nine is available to stream on Peacock.
Film Details
- Release Date: August 1, 2025
- Producer: Erica Huggins
- Franchise: The Naked Gun
