The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear is a 1991 comedy film directed by David Zucker, starring Leslie Nielsen as the bumbling and lovable Lieutenant Frank Drebin. The film is a sequel to the successful The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! (1988), continuing the zany slapstick humor and satirical tone that made the original so beloved. Full of visual gags, one-liners, and absurd situations, the film spoofs everything from police procedurals to political intrigue, making it a comedic classic of the early ’90s.
In this review, we’ll dive into the film’s plot, performances, and comedic style, and provide details on where to stream or rent The Naked Gun 2½ online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Overview: Frank Drebin’s Latest Case
In The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear, Lieutenant Frank Drebin (Leslie Nielsen) returns to tackle another case with his characteristic mix of ineptitude and unintentional heroism. The plot revolves around a conspiracy to sabotage Dr. Albert S. Meinheimer (Richard Griffiths), a scientist who has developed a new energy policy that threatens the interests of big business.
Key plot points include:
- The Kidnapping of Dr. Meinheimer: Drebin must investigate a plot to kidnap Dr. Meinheimer and replace him with a doppelganger who will advocate for outdated, environmentally harmful energy policies.
- Jane Spencer’s Return: Frank’s ex-girlfriend Jane Spencer (Priscilla Presley) is now working for Dr. Meinheimer, leading to a series of awkward and comedic romantic encounters as Frank tries to rekindle their relationship while solving the case.
- Corporate Villains: The film’s primary antagonists are businessmen from oil, coal, and nuclear energy industries who are determined to keep their industries alive by ensuring Dr. Meinheimer’s new green energy policy doesn’t see the light of day.
- Absurd Investigations and Gags: As with the first film, The Naked Gun 2½ is packed with slapstick humor, visual gags, and Drebin’s signature incompetence. From accidentally blowing up buildings to bungling high-stakes moments, Drebin’s antics keep the film moving at a fast and hilarious pace.
The plot serves more as a backdrop for the film’s trademark humor, with frequent absurd situations and parodies of serious action films and police dramas.
Performances: Leslie Nielsen’s Comic Mastery
Leslie Nielsen shines once again as the clumsy and deadpan Frank Drebin, delivering a performance filled with impeccable comedic timing and physical humor. His ability to play the straight man amidst absurd chaos is what makes the character so memorable and the comedy so effective.
Priscilla Presley returns as Jane Spencer, Drebin’s romantic interest. Her role provides both romantic tension and comic relief, especially in scenes where Drebin’s efforts to win her back are thwarted by his own bumbling nature.
George Kennedy reprises his role as Captain Ed Hocken, Drebin’s loyal friend and colleague, while O.J. Simpson makes a brief return as Detective Nordberg, adding to the film’s roster of familiar characters.
The villains, played by Robert Goulet as Quentin Hapsburg, offer the perfect foil to Drebin’s antics, providing the necessary contrast for the comedy to land.
Comedy and Style: Satirical Genius
The Naked Gun 2½ is a brilliant continuation of the comedic style established in the first film and earlier in Police Squad!, the short-lived TV show that inspired the franchise. The film is filled with visual humor, slapstick, and puns, often layering jokes on top of one another so quickly that some gags might only be noticed upon repeated viewings.
A hallmark of the film is its parody of serious genres, from political thrillers to action films, with particular focus on making fun of authority figures like law enforcement and politicians. Drebin’s obliviousness to his surroundings and his unflinching seriousness in the face of ridiculous situations is where much of the humor derives.
The film also doesn’t shy away from ridiculous sight gags, including exploding buildings, ridiculous chases, and physical comedy that involves Drebin inadvertently causing chaos at every turn. Fans of absurdist humor and satirical takes on serious issues will find plenty to enjoy here.
Reception: A Sequel That Delivers
The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear was well-received by both critics and audiences upon its release. While it didn’t quite reach the critical acclaim of the original, it was still praised for continuing the formula that made the first film so beloved. The humor is relentless, with Nielsen’s comedic performance being the standout.
For fans of the original and those who enjoy spoof films like Airplane! (also directed by David Zucker), The Naked Gun 2½ delivers another solid installment of fast-paced, clever humor.
Where to Watch The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear Online
For those looking to stream or rent this comedy classic, The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear is available on various platforms in the United States.
Streaming Services
- HBO Max: The film is available to stream on HBO Max. Subscribers to the service can access the movie as part of the platform’s extensive film library.
- Peacock: Depending on current licensing agreements, The Naked Gun 2½ may also be available on Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming service.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you prefer to rent or purchase the film, several digital platforms offer The Naked Gun 2½ for rent or purchase:
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for rent (around $3.99) or purchase (typically between $9.99 and $14.99) on Amazon Prime Video.
- Apple TV: The Naked Gun 2½ can be rented or purchased on Apple TV, with prices similar to Amazon’s.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV, with rental prices typically around $3.99 and purchase options from $9.99.
- YouTube Movies: Viewers can rent or buy the film on YouTube Movies, with prices comparable to other digital platforms.
Conclusion: A Hilarious Sequel Worth Watching
The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991) is a comedic gem that continues the legacy of Frank Drebin’s absurd crime-solving adventures. Leslie Nielsen’s deadpan humor, combined with a script packed with slapstick and sight gags, makes this film a must-watch for fans of parody and absurdist comedy.
Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, The Naked Gun 2½ delivers laughs at every turn. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to enjoy this timeless classic from the comfort of your home.
