Today’s quick review: The Naked Gun. Lt. Frank Drebin (Leslie Nielsen) is one of the top detectives of the Los Angeles Police Squad. When his partner Nordberg (O.J. Simpson) is hospitalized on an investigation, Drebin leaps into action, uncovering a plot to assassinate the Queen of England during her visit to Los Angeles. His investigation leads him to Vincent Ludwig (Ricardo Montalban), a sinister businessman, and Jane Spencer (Priscilla Presley), his gorgeous secretary. But with Police Squad disgraced by a string of public failures, Drebin must fight to stay on the case long enough to save the Queen’s life.
The Naked Gun is a goofy comedy from the creators of Airplane!. Based on the short-lived TV series Police Squad!, The Naked Gun is a lighthearted spoof of the crime genre that is packed full of sight gags, puns, and slapstick. Leslie Nielsen does a masterful job as Frank Drebin, who is as straight-faced as any TV detective yet as clumsy as any stooge. The other actors follow a similar pattern, using thinly dramatic acting as cover for ridiculous gags and silly situations. The plot is an excuse for Drebin to bungle things in ever-more-spectacular ways, providing ample opportunity for humor along the way.
The Naked Gun is a must-see for lovers of silly, Airplane!-style humor. It is one of the finest entries into the genre, with the best jokes and the best acting. The Naked Gun is a perfect choice for when you are in the mood for something light, quick, and hilarious. Skip it if you dislike slapstick or sight gags, but otherwise make sure to check it out.
7.6 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 for excellent, silly humor.