The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!

About The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!

The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! is a 1988 American action comedy film. It is the first installment of The Naked Gun film series. The story revolves around a bumbling police detective, Frank Drebin, and his antics to foil an attempt to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II. Directed by David Zucker, the film uses slapstick comedy, puns, and visual gags to satirize detective shows and offer a humorous take on the genre.

Making / Production

The film was directed by David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker and Jim Abrahams co-produced it. They are the team behind the successful Airplane! and Top Secret! films. David Zucker also co-wrote the script along with Pat Proft.

Actors

• Leslie Nielsen as Frank Drebin: Nielsen, famous for his deadpan humor, plays the passionately inept detective Frank Drebin. His pitch-perfect performance is remembered as one of his most iconic roles.
• Priscilla Presley as Jane Spencer: As Jane Spencer, Presley plays the accident-prone love interest of Drebin, setting up hilarious misunderstandings and physical comedy.
• Ricardo Montalban as Vincent Ludwig: Montalban delivers a convincing performance as the suave but sinister villain who plans to brainwash a baseball player to assassinate the Queen.
• George Kennedy as Ed Hocken: Kennedy portrays Ed Hocken, Drebin's faithful partner who somehow keeps faith in Drebin's abilities despite his blunders.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Naked Gun movie is based on a short-lived television series called 'Police Squad' which only aired for six episodes in 1982.
• Aside from its laughs, the movie has been praised by some as a love letter to Los Angeles, filled with glimpses of the L.A. of yore.
• Leslie Nielsen and Priscilla Presley's slapstick romance in the movie is legendary. One scene involves a full-body condom suit!

Awards

The film and its performances were so well-received by the film community that it was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy.

Quotes

• "It's true what they say: Cops and women don't mix. It's like eating a spoonful of Drano; sure, it'll clean you out, but it'll leave you hollow inside." - Frank Drebin
• "Nice beaver!" - Frank Drebin
• "Thank you, I just had it stuffed!" - Jane Spencer

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's score, including the iconic theme, was composed by Ira Newborn.
• Popular music of the time, such as "I'm into Something Good" by Herman's Hermits, also features in the movie.