Discover Where to Stream All ‘The Naked Gun’ Movies Today

Liam Neeson’s comedic journey gains momentum with the release of the new film, The Naked Gun. This legacy sequel to the original Naked Gun trilogy continues the comedic tradition established by Jerry Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and David Zucker, known collectively as ZAZ. Their work has left an indelible mark on comedy, particularly in the ’80s and ’90s. For fans eager to revisit the classic films or discover them for the first time, several streaming options are available.

The first entry in the franchise, The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!, debuted in 1988, reviving the short-lived television series Police Squad!. Although the original series is not available for streaming, this film introduced audiences to the iconic character of Lt. Frank Drebin, played by the legendary Leslie Nielsen. The movie features a memorable opening scene where Drebin faces off against various adversaries, culminating in a chaotic finale at Angel Stadium where he must thwart an assassination attempt on Queen Elizabeth II, portrayed by Jeannette Charles. Streaming for this film is available on Paramount+.

In the sequel, The Naked Gun 21⁄2: The Smell of Fear, released in 1991, Detective Nordberg, played by O. J. Simpson, encounters new comedic challenges. This time, the pratfalls are humorously shifted to then First Lady Barbara Bush, played by Margery Ross. The film explores Frank Drebin’s turbulent relationship with Jane Spencer, who has started dating the new villain, Quentin Hapsburg, played by Robert Goulet. This sequel is also available for streaming on Paramount+.

The trilogy concluded with Naked Gun 331⁄3: The Final Insult in 1994. This film parodies contemporary cinematic works, including The Untouchables and The Shawshank Redemption. As Frank and Jane’s marriage unravels, Frank goes undercover in prison to investigate a mad bomber, leading to chaotic scenes during the Oscars. This final installment also features cameo appearances from stars like James Earl Jones and Anna Nicole Smith. Fans can find this film streaming on Paramount+ as well.

Beyond the Naked Gun films, ZAZ’s comedic legacy includes the iconic Airplane!, released in 1980. This film spoofs the disaster movie genre, with Nielsen delivering a breakout performance as Dr. Rumack. The plot centers on former military pilot Ted Striker, portrayed by Robert Hays, who boards a flight to win back his ex-girlfriend, stewardess Elaine Dickinson, played by Julie Hagerty. The rapid-fire jokes remain a hallmark of ZAZ’s style, and Airplane! is currently available to stream on Paramount+.

In 1982, the team released Airplane II: The Sequel, which diverged somewhat by incorporating a science fiction theme. Although ZAZ did not return for this sequel, Hays and Hagerty reprised their roles. The film features a flight to a lunar base and showcases Striker’s heroics once more. Viewers can find this sequel on Paramount+.

Another notable work from ZAZ is Top Secret!, released in 1984. This film offered Val Kilmer his breakout role in a ludicrous parody of spy thrillers and Elvis Presley films. Kilmer plays Nick Rivers, a rock star turned spy tasked with preventing a communist takeover in East Germany. While the plot is thin, Kilmer’s charisma drives the film, which is available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

For those interested in reliving the laughs or experiencing these films for the first time, the streaming options are plentiful. With Neeson’s latest contribution to the Naked Gun legacy, audiences can look forward to more comedic adventures that honor the franchise’s rich history.