Review of The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991)

The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991) continues the riotous misadventures of Frank Drebin, the bumbling but well-meaning lieutenant of the Police Squad, in a sequel that doubles down on absurd humor, sharp parodies, and slapstick gags. Directed by David Zucker and starring Leslie Nielsen, this comedy follows its predecessor’s formula while injecting fresh antics and an exaggerated take on political and environmental issues of its time. This review explores the film’s humor, performances, and its place in the pantheon of spoof comedies.

Plot and Humor

The plot revolves around Lt. Frank Drebin (Leslie Nielsen) trying to foil a nefarious conspiracy by big energy corporations to suppress a report advocating for renewable energy. The report’s author, Dr. Albert S. Meinheimer (Richard Griffiths), becomes a key figure in the villains’ plan, with his double being used to manipulate public perception. Alongside this chaotic investigation, Drebin attempts to rekindle his romance with Jane Spencer (Priscilla Presley), who has unwittingly become entangled in the conspiracy.

The film’s humor is relentless, with a barrage of visual gags, wordplay, and satirical jabs at both contemporary politics and classic Hollywood tropes. From Drebin’s comically inept police work to over-the-top action sequences, the film thrives on its absurdity. While some jokes are dated, the rapid-fire delivery ensures there’s always something to laugh at, even if a gag occasionally misses the mark.

Performances

Leslie Nielsen’s performance as Frank Drebin is the backbone of the film. Nielsen’s deadpan delivery and impeccable comedic timing elevate even the most ludicrous scenarios, making Drebin a lovable and enduring character. His ability to play the straight man amidst increasingly ridiculous situations is a testament to his comedic genius.

Priscilla Presley’s Jane Spencer provides a grounded foil to Drebin’s antics, delivering her lines with charm and sincerity that contrasts perfectly with the film’s chaos. George Kennedy as Captain Ed Hocken and O.J. Simpson as Nordberg reprise their roles, offering solid support and contributing to some of the film’s funniest moments.

Richard Griffiths stands out as Dr. Meinheimer, lending credibility to the absurd premise of his kidnapping and impersonation. His scenes add a layer of satirical commentary on corporate greed and environmental ethics, albeit through a comically exaggerated lens.

Parody and Satire

The Naked Gun 2½ excels as a parody, poking fun at crime dramas, political thrillers, and societal issues of the early 1990s. Its lampooning of corporate malfeasance and environmental debates adds a satirical edge, though these themes are approached with a lightheartedness that prioritizes humor over depth.

The film’s visual comedy is equally effective, with inventive sight gags that range from clever to outright ridiculous. Scenes like Drebin’s disastrous dinner date and his over-the-top fight sequences with hired goons showcase the series’ signature style of physical comedy. Pop culture references and absurdly literal interpretations of dialogue ensure the humor remains varied and unpredictable.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Leslie Nielsen’s masterful comedic performance.
• Consistent humor with a mix of slapstick, puns, and satire.
• Clever parodies of Hollywood tropes and political themes.

Weaknesses:

• Some jokes feel dated or overly reliant on the cultural context of the early 1990s.
• The plot, while serviceable, takes a backseat to the comedy, occasionally feeling disjointed.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its humor and Nielsen’s performance. While it didn’t achieve the same cultural impact as the original The Naked Gun, the sequel solidified the franchise’s reputation as a benchmark for spoof comedies.

The film’s enduring appeal lies in its unapologetically silly approach to storytelling. It remains a favorite among fans of slapstick and parody, serving as a reminder of a time when comedies embraced absurdity without reservation.

Conclusion

The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991) delivers exactly what fans of the series expect: an unapologetically goofy and endlessly entertaining comedy that revels in its absurdity. While some aspects may feel dated, Leslie Nielsen’s iconic portrayal of Frank Drebin and the film’s relentless humor ensure its place as a beloved entry in the spoof comedy genre.

For those seeking a lighthearted and laugh-out-loud experience, The Naked Gun 2½ is a worthy follow-up that captures the spirit of the original while carving out its own place in cinematic comedy history.