David Zucker, director of the original 'Naked Gun' films, has criticized the 2025 reboot starring Liam Neeson, calling it a miss on the spoof comedy style. He blames the project's large budget and suggests the industry prioritizes money over quality. Despite the backlash, the film achieved commercial and critical success.
Background on the Franchise
The 'Naked Gun' series began with the 1988 comedy 'The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!,' directed by David Zucker alongside his brother Jerry Zucker and partner Jim Abrahams. It starred Leslie Nielsen and spun off from their 1982 ABC series 'Police Squad!' The team developed a specific style of spoof comedy, guided by what Zucker describes as '15 rules' for success, emphasizing low budgets and avoiding excessive technical effects.
Criticism from David Zucker
In a recent interview with Woman's World, Zucker expressed disappointment in the 2025 reboot, produced by Seth MacFarlane and directed by Akiva Schaffer. The film features Liam Neeson in the lead role, with Pamela Anderson also starring, and a script by Schaffer, Dan Gregor, and Doug Mand. Zucker said, 'People started copying it, like Seth MacFarlane for the new Naked Gun. He totally missed it.' He added that big budgets conflict with comedy, noting, 'You shouldn’t spend too much money on comedies, and one of our rules is about technical pizzazz. Big budgets and comedy are opposites.' Zucker also remarked, 'Everybody’s in it for the money now,' highlighting his view of modern motivations in Hollywood.
Reboot's Performance
Released on August 1, 2025, 'The Naked Gun' grossed $102.1 million worldwide. It earned an 88% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, certified Fresh, and has been praised for reviving theatrical comedy. Producers include MacFarlane and Erica Huggins. Zucker's comments contrast with the film's positive reception, offering a balanced perspective on reboot challenges.