Comedy is back—and it’s hitting hard. In this episode, Geoffrey is joined by returning guest and screenwriter Reece Taylor to break down the wild, absurd brilliance of the new Naked Gun reboot. From slapstick to self-aware parody, they explore why this style of comedy matters now more than ever, and how the film nails both structure and chaos in a way that keeps you laughing well past the credits.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why comedy thrives in tough times
• How the new Naked Gun reboot revives Zucker-style humor
• Pam Anderson’s unexpected comedy chops
• Why structure doesn’t matter when the laughs hit
• What today’s filmmakers can learn from absurdism

Key Moments:
00:26 – Why Geoffrey needed this film
01:15 – Is this classic comedy style dead?
04:30 – Visual gags, deadpan delivery, and coffee bits
09:18 – The Frosty the Snowman horror short (?!?)
21:08 – Shame-eating and the bodycam Busta Rhymes scene

About the Guest:
Reece Taylor is a screenwriter, film reviewer, and longtime friend of the show. With a near-completed MFA and sharp industry insight, he brings a passion for storytelling and a love of comedy to every discussion.

About the Host:
With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Palm Springs (2020) directed by Akiva Schaffer
• Repossessed, High Spirits, and other parody classics
• The Naked Gun reboot (2025)

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Podcast Website
• Instagram @screenwriterpod
• TikTok @screenwriterpod

If this episode made you laugh or rethink comedy in film like, share, and subscribe. And tell us your favorite scene from the new Naked Gun reboot in the comments!
#NakedGun #FilmPodcast #ComedyIsBack #ScreenwritingTips #ParodyDoneRight