The film, one of the few comedies getting a theatrical release this year, generated about $17 million at the box office.

Neeson's turn as Frank Drebin Jr. in Paramount's reboot of The Naked Gun has reignited interest in slapstick comedies and brought new life to a classic franchise. The film's strong box office performance and overwhelmingly positive critical reception prompted speculation about possible sequels.

Like everyone else my age, I am irrationally protective of the pop culture touchstones I grew up with. Just last week, I saw a trailer for a “Running Man” remake — starring