Loaded Weapon 1 , released on Feb. 5, 1993, isn’t just a parody; it’s a celebration of action movie clichés, delivered with a healthy dose of slapstick humor and a cast that’s clearly having a blast. While it might not be highbrow cinema, it’s a genuinely funny and endlessly quotable comedy that holds up surprisingly well, especially for fans of the genre it lovingly lampoons.
Emilio Estevez and Samuel L. Jackson make for an inspired comedic duo as mismatched cops Jack Colt and Wes Luger. Estevez is the rebellious burned out Colt, while Jackson is the straight-laced, by-the-book Luger. Their contrasting styles and personalities create a perfect comedic dynamic, and their on-screen chemistry is undeniable.
The plot, as you might expect, is a pastiche of action movie tropes: a murdered partner, a shadowy conspiracy, and a whole lot of explosions. But the film’s strength lies in its willingness to embrace the absurdity of these clichés. From over-the-top action sequences to hilariously cheesy dialogue, Loaded Weapon 1 pulls out all the stops to deliver a non-stop barrage of laughs.
The supporting cast is equally game for anything. Kathy Ireland plays the requisite damsel in distress with a wink and a nod, while William Shatner chews the scenery with relish as the villainous General Curtis Mortars.
Kathy Ireland in Loaded Weapon 1 (Photo/New Line Cinema)
Jon Lovitz, as the perpetually exasperated Becker, provides some of the film’s funniest moments.
Tim Curry stars as Mr. Jigsaw, a parody of Mr. Joshua in the original Lethal Weapon.
Denis Leary, Frank MacRae, Bill Nunn and F. Murray Abraham (Scarface) round out the cast.
Keep an eye out for a plethora of cameos from other familiar faces, adding to the film’s overall sense of fun.
Loaded Weapon 1 isn’t a subtle comedy. It’s loud, it’s brash, and it’s often gloriously silly. But it’s also genuinely funny. The film’s rapid-fire pacing, combined with Estevez and Jackson’s comedic timing, keeps the jokes coming thick and fast.
Reception for Loaded Weapon 1
Loaded Weapon 1 grossed $9.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office, topping Sommersby ($8.1 million) starring Richard Gere and Jodie Foster.
The film would gross $51.2 million worldwide.
Legacy
While some of the humor might be dated, the film’s overall energy and enthusiasm are infectious. It’s clear that everyone involved had a good time making Loaded Weapon 1, and that sense of fun translates to the screen. If you’re looking for a lighthearted and hilarious comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously, then this movie is definitely worth a watch.
