Key takeaways:
– Liam Neeson, from a drama and action background, feels nervous about starring in The Naked Gun reboot.
– Neeson hopes for a solid storyline and funny, sexy cast members to help carry the comedy.
– Original Naked Gun team, David Zucker and Pat Proft, express disquiet over the reboot, believing they should helm any continuation of the series.
Renowned actor Liam Neeson has stepped into a new arena, comedy, for his upcoming role in The Naked Gun reboot. Sharing his anxieties and excitement during an interview, the actor revealed his nervous anticipation as he prepares to fill the shoes once worn by comedic legend, Leslie Nielsen.
From Drama to Action, now Comedy
Neeson’s career has spanned myriad genres. Initially known for his dramatic roles, the actor reinvented himself in 2008’s action hit, Taken. His towering presence and compelling performances brought him success in the action genre.
Over time, Neeson has subtly explored comedy. He has made guest appearances in Life’s Too Short and worked with Seth MacFarlane in A Million Ways to Die in the West and in a cameo in Ted 2.
Now he takes on the Naked Gun series, renewing the character of Frank Drebin, a part immortalized by Leslie Nielsen. As with Nielsen, Neeson aims to leverage his serious demeanor for comedic effect.
Nervous Anticipation
When discussing the upcoming role, Neeson expressed both honor and unease. “I’m honored to be offered the part of Frank Drebin, and a little bit nervous about it,” he confessed during a promotional interview for his new film, In the Land of Saints and Sinners.
For Neeson, the successful execution of comedy in The Naked Gun reboot involves a delicate balance. Rather than relying on a succession of gags, the revered actor hopes for a storyline with a loose but evident theme woven into the script.
“I hope my other cast members will be funny and sexy so that I could just be dead absolutely straight,” he said. In Neeson’s mind, the combination of a funny script, dynamic cast, and his serious delivery will maximize the comedy’s impact.
Disquiet Among Original Team
Not everyone shares in the elation and expectation surrounding The Naked Gun reboot. David Zucker and Pat Proft, the powerhouse duo behind the original series, voiced their concerns.
According to THR, Zucker and Proft, while harboring no ill-will towards the reboot’s producer, Schaffer, do believe that the continuation of the popular series, if any, should remain in their hands. Zucker and Proft even revealed that their draft for Naked Gun 4 was rejected, further fueling their unease with the reboot’s impending release.
New Direction, Same Spirit
While Neeson embarks on a distinctly new direction in his career with the Naked Gun reboot, the objective remains the same: to honor and reinvigorate the comedic spirit of the original series. Nielsen’s iconic performances, paired with his dry delivery, redefined his career and left an unforgettable legacy in comedy.
With the support of a strong cast and thoughtful script, Neeson hopes to accomplish a similar feat. In the midst of his nervous anticipation, he embraces the challenge and looks forward to stepping into Frank Drebin’s renowned shoes. The Naked Gun reboot not only offers an exciting opportunity for Neeson but also promises a nostalgic and humorous experience for its audience.
In conclusion, as viewers around the world await the return of the famed comedic series, one thing is certain: the reboot, replete with a new cast and fresh direction, is set to make waves in the comedy industry.
