The trailer for the much-anticipated remake of “The Naked Gun” has finally been released, showcasing Liam Neeson taking on the iconic role of Lt. Frank Drebin. The original ’80s screwball police comedy, known for its slapstick humor and memorable performances from Leslie Nielsen, has stirred mixed reactions from those connected to the original franchise.
David Zucker Slams the Remake
David Zucker, the legendary director who helmed the original “Naked Gun” and also directed the classic “Airplane!”, did not hold back his criticism. Speaking to TMZ, Zucker admitted that watching the trailer made him instantly regret it. His words were harsh:
“I never saw ‘Airplane 2’ because you can’t unsee that stuff. I’m not planning on seeing the ‘Naked Gun’ remake either. I regret having seen the trailer for it. It’s like watching ‘2 Girls 1 Cup.’ I can’t unsee it.”
To clarify, “2 Girls 1 Cup” is an infamous and grotesque video involving explicit content that became notorious for its shock value. By comparing the trailer to such a disturbing piece of content, Zucker made it clear he views the remake as a complete disaster.
Zucker’s disdain for the project isn’t a total surprise. Paramount reportedly never reached out to him for any consultation on the reboot, even though he, Pat Proft, and Mike McManus had previously submitted a script to the studio in 2018 for a new “Naked Gun” film — a script that went nowhere.
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O.J. Simpson’s Estate Reacts Differently
Interestingly, while Zucker rejected the remake, O.J. Simpson’s estate took a more positive approach. Simpson played Officer Nordberg in the original “Naked Gun” trilogy, a comedic role he’s still remembered for despite his later legal controversies.
In the remake’s trailer, Liam Neeson’s character is seen mourning his father, Lt. Frank Drebin, in the Police Squad’s Hall of Legends. However, O.J. Simpson’s character, Nordberg, is mocked, with his son not giving him the same reverence.
Despite the jab, Malcolm LaVergne, O.J. Simpson’s longtime attorney and executor of his estate, praised the humor. Speaking to TMZ, LaVergne said:
“I thought the joke was funny … and it’s good O.J. is acknowledged — since he was a star of the franchise.”
LaVergne acknowledged that younger audiences unfamiliar with the original films might miss the joke, but those who remember Simpson’s role as Nordberg will likely appreciate the nod.
A Divisive Comeback
The remake’s trailer seems to be drawing a sharp divide between those who worked on the original series and others with connections to the franchise. While David Zucker’s outright rejection may come from a place of personal and creative frustration, O.J. Simpson’s estate’s approval suggests that some elements of the remake are being positively received.
Ultimately, how well the new “Naked Gun” performs will depend on whether audiences appreciate the modern twist on the classic comedy, or if they view it as a misguided attempt to revive a beloved franchise.
Stay tuned for more updates as reactions to the trailer continue to pour in.
