Full Breakdown
"The Naked Gun" Named Best Comedy of All Time
11/26/2025, 3:15:31 PM
Overview of the Ranking
Variety's review staff has declared the 1988 film "The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!" as the best comedy movie of all time. This ranking places it ahead of notable films such as "Some Like it Hot" at #2 and "Annie Hall" at #3. The top ten also includes classics like "The Great Dictator" at #4 and "Waiting for Guffman" at #5, while "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," "Duck Soup," "Fargo," "Young Frankenstein," and "Groundhog Day" complete the list.
Notable Controversies
The ranking has sparked discussions regarding the inclusion and exclusion of certain films. Critics have pointed out that some titles on the list, such as "The Waterboy" at #50, may not fit the traditional definition of comedy, being described as too romantic or dark. Additionally, many classic comedies, including "Life of Brian," "Planes, Trains and Automobiles," and "The Princess Bride," were notably absent from the top 100, leading to debates about the criteria used for the rankings.
David Zucker's Perspective
David Zucker, co-creator of the original "Naked Gun," has expressed mixed feelings about the recent revival of the franchise, which features Liam Neeson. While he acknowledges that the new film brought attention to the original, he remains critical of its execution. Zucker stated, “People started copying it, like Seth MacFarlane for the new Naked Gun. He totally missed it.” He emphasized that big budgets do not align with the essence of comedy, arguing that the new film's technical extravagance detracts from its humor.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the ranking, Zucker highlighted the importance of maintaining the original style of spoof comedies, which he and his collaborators pioneered. He noted, “Big budgets and comedy are opposites,” indicating that the financial resources allocated to the new film may have compromised its comedic integrity. Zucker's comments reflect a broader concern among creators regarding the direction of modern comedic films.
Criticism & Opposition
The ranking has not only drawn praise but also criticism from various quarters. Some film enthusiasts argue that the list reflects a narrow perspective on comedy, favoring certain styles over others. The absence of beloved comedies from the top 100 has led to discussions about the evolving nature of humor and the criteria used to define comedic excellence.
Verbatim Quotes
- “My brother, Jerry, and our partner, Jim Abrahams, started doing spoof comedies 50 years ago, and we originated our own style — and we did that so well that it looks easy, evidently,” — David Zucker, Co-Creator of "The Naked Gun."
- “Big budgets and comedy are opposites, and in the new Naked Gun, you could see that they spent a lot of money on scenes full of technical pizzazz while trying to copy our style.” — David Zucker, Co-Creator of "The Naked Gun."
The recognition of "The Naked Gun" as the best comedy of all time underscores its lasting impact on the genre, while also igniting discussions about the criteria for comedic excellence and the evolution of humor in cinema.
