SPOILER ALERT: This article discusses plot details from “The Naked Gun,” which is currently showing in theaters.
One of the standout humorous moments in this weekend’s “The Naked Gun” features actors Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson embroiled in a bizarre love triangle involving a snowman.
This zany sketch appears midway through director and co-writer Akiva Schaffer’s reboot of the classic parody film, which has garnered $17 million at the domestic box office this weekend. The scene embodies Schaffer’s comedic roots from The Lonely Island, known for their memorable digital shorts on “Saturday Night Live.”
In the first half of the new “Naked Gun,” Neeson plays detective Frank Drebin, Jr. while Anderson portrays femme fatale Beth Davenport. Initially at odds, they eventually give in to their mutual attraction. Their escapade takes them from Los Angeles to a serene cabin in the snow, highlighted by a romantic montage set to the Starship song “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.”
The duo builds an oversized snowman and enjoys their wintry surroundings. They exchange flirtatious glances over a hot tub, and the story takes a twist when they discover a book titled “Spells & Incantations.” A mysterious green light from the book animates the snowman, thrusting him into a comedic love triangle filled with jealousy and near-homicidal antics.
Schaffer spoke with Variety about this absurd scene, its challenging approval process, and how he addressed Paramount’s reservations, ultimately crafting what is set to become an iconic moment in the new film.
Discussing the snowman concept, Schaffer noted that while it may not be a common trope, it draws inspiration from lesser-known films. The scene’s inspiration came in a flash of creativity one night, leading to a memorable montage that stays true to the film’s legacy. Friend support varied during script readings, with some praising the snowman sequence while others didn’t quite get it. Nevertheless, the final reaction has been largely positive.
