The Naked Gun reboot featuring Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson is already earning high praise from critics ahead of its theatrical release on August 1. Directed by Akiva Schaffer and inspired by the iconic Police Squad! series and original Naked Gun movies, this comedy-action film has impressed audiences and critics alike. Review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes reports an outstanding 98% Fresh score based on 48 early reviews, signaling a strong start for this legacy sequel.
Critics have been especially vocal about the performances of Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson. According to Indiewire’s David Ehrlich, the film stands out as one of the funniest American comedies in recent memory. He noted how the movie cleverly references modern topics such as Elon Musk and contemporary social issues, yet still manages to deliver consistent laughter without compromising its comedic timing or message. Ehrlich emphasized that the humor walks a fine line between satirical and timeless, making it both bold and relevant.
David Rooney from The Hollywood Reporter praised the chemistry between the film’s lead stars, stating that Neeson and Anderson’s scenes are the film’s highlight. Although he pointed out that some scenes—such as a winter cabin interlude with a killer snowman—felt unnecessarily exaggerated, he appreciated the leads’ synergy and comic timing.
Inverse critic Sidhant Adlakha lauded the film’s consistent and unapologetic approach to humor. He remarked that nearly every line of dialogue serves as a joke and that the film’s refusal to break the fourth wall adds to its charm. Neeson’s portrayal of an over-the-top yet emotionally straight-faced detective, coupled with Pamela Anderson’s femme fatale role, brought freshness and unpredictability to the screen.
Nick Schager from The Daily Beast described the film as a wild, fast-paced experience packed into a brief 85-minute runtime. He appreciated the blend of story-driven humor and spontaneous, absurd scenes that kept audiences guessing and laughing throughout.
The Naked Gun’s storyline centers on the son of Lt. Frank Drebin as he takes on his father’s mantle to save Police Squad from being shut down. With supporting roles by Paul Walter Hauser, Kevin Durand, and Danny Huston, the film promises to deliver a hilarious cinematic experience. With glowing early reviews and stellar performances, The Naked Gun reboot may just be the comedy hit of the year.