The Naked Gun Reboot Is a Missed Opportunity for Hollywood Comedy

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Liam Neeson starred in a surprisingly successful film in 2025 that could have positively impacted Hollywood by challenging a frustrating trend. The movie was a reboot of the classic action-comedy series previously known for Leslie Nielsen, and while fans initially reacted negatively to the announcement, the new version proved to be a hit. If handled well, it had the potential to significantly change things in Hollywood.

The director has confirmed there are currently no plans to make any more films in the Naked Gun series, despite the recent movie performing well. This is unexpected, especially considering the positive reception to the reboot, and many fans were hoping it would signal a revival of smart comedy in Hollywood. It seemed like this new Naked Gun could have brought back a beloved style of film, but now that possibility seems unlikely.

The Naked Gun Deserves a Sequel

It’s unusual for Hollywood not to make a sequel, but that’s the case with The Naked Gun. The reboot was surprisingly successful, winning over fans despite not being initially requested, and even changing public opinion. Although it wasn’t a blockbuster in 2025, Liam Neeson’s comedy earned enough – partly because it didn’t cost a lot to make – to suggest another film was likely. So, the decision to stop with one movie may come as a disappointment to fans.

Though known for more dramatic roles, the actor shines as a comedic force in The Naked Gun. Fans of his earlier, smaller comedic appearances in films like Ted 2 and Anchorman 2 will recall he’s always had a knack for humor. His serious demeanor and dry delivery wonderfully contrast with the film’s silly script, echoing the fantastic comedic timing Leslie Nielsen brought to the original Naked Gun movies. The film even playfully suggests a connection to Nielsen’s character, hinting that he was reborn as an owl to mentor his son.

Beyond Liam Neeson’s strong acting, the film doesn’t shy away from being funny, embracing unexpected jokes, playful puns, and over-the-top gags – all hallmarks of the series. It’s a shame there aren’t many comedies like The Naked Gun being made anymore, as the comedy genre has struggled with the rise of streaming and the decline of movie theaters. This film had the potential to help bring back big comedy hits, but without further installments, that won’t happen.

Hollywood Needs More Comedies Like The Naked Gun

As a movie fan, I’ve noticed a really disappointing trend. For years, comedies were huge box office draws – right up there with action or drama. But lately, theaters seem to be filled with nothing but massive action movies. And honestly, a lot of them are trying to be funny, but in a way that just feels forced and ruins the serious moments. It’s gotten to the point where genuinely funny movies are almost exclusively released on streaming services, completely skipping theaters. It’s a real loss for the big screen experience, if you ask me.

Adam Sandler’s comedies were once big hits in movie theaters in the late 1990s and early 2000s. But for the past eleven years, most of his films have gone straight to Netflix, with the Hotel Transylvania series being the exception. He’s not alone – other well-known comedians like Will Ferrell, Eddie Murphy, and Melissa McCarthy are also releasing their comedies on streaming services. Many in Hollywood now seem to think that comedies do better on streaming, while big action movies are what still draw audiences to theaters.

It’s likely The Naked Gun was released in theaters simply because it was a recognizable reboot of an older series. However, some fans of the original films weren’t thrilled with the idea. Despite this, the movie still managed to draw audiences who were eager for this type of comedy in theaters. While it wasn’t a blockbuster like an Avengers film, The Naked Gun surprisingly did well enough to show Hollywood that there’s still a demand for comedies in movie theaters.

It’s disappointing that we likely won’t see any more Naked Gun movies. A continuation of the series, perhaps led by Liam Neeson, could have revitalized a type of comedy that many viewers are craving. Recent news suggests fans shouldn’t expect another installment anytime soon.

The Naked Gun is available to stream on Paramount+.

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2026-01-20 07:08