Carry-On Review: A High-Stakes Action Thriller for Netflix Nights

Carry-On, the latest Netflix action thriller, directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and written by T.J. Fixman, brings together a stellar cast in a high-tension, holiday-set narrative. Starring Taron Egerton as Ethan Kopek and Jason Bateman as the enigmatic antagonist “The Traveler,” the film delivers solid performances, though it treads familiar ground in terms of plot. Released on December 13, 2024, Carry-On has garnered generally positive reviews from critics, despite its predictability.

Plot and Performances

The story follows Ethan Kopek, a TSA officer coerced into allowing a nerve agent onto a Christmas Eve flight. The stakes are high, and the situation spirals as Ethan navigates an impossible choice under the watchful eye of Jason Bateman’s steely Traveler. Bateman’s performance is, unsurprisingly, the standout. Known for his chilling portrayal of morally complex characters (Ozark, anyone?), he brings a cold authority to this role that is nothing short of, in a word, hot. His interactions with his accomplices are both tense and brutally efficient, setting a menacing tone early on.

What Works and What Doesn’t

Strengths: The cinematography keeps the elicit sweat particles high on the agenda. Offering a claustrophobic, bird’s-eye view of the action, every move feels scrutinized, as if someone is always watching, and the consequences for mistakes are swift.

Action sequences combined with a time crunch creates plenty of moments that leave you catching your breath. Not everyone makes it out alive, ensuring that stakes remain palpable throughout.

Taron Egerton’s Ethan provides the spark for the film. His journey from reluctant pawn to investigative powerhouse gives the narrative its emotional core. While the supporting cast, including Sofia Carson as Nora Parisi and Danielle Deadwyler as Elena Cole, deliver strong performances, they’re underserved by a narrative that opts for strategic plot points over organic development.

Weaknesses: The plot is predictable. It relies on clichéd scenarios, such as a manager refusing to ground planes under the threat of terrorism because “it’s Christmas Eve.” These elements detract from the overall impact. It’s a frustratingly unrealistic decision that feels more contrived than compelling. Still, the film’s tension and pacing largely make up for these shortcomings.

Should You Watch It?

Carry-On is a solid choice for a laid-back movie night. While it doesn’t break new ground, it’s engaging enough to hold your attention and delivers on action. Its themes of family, sacrifice, and resilience add a layer of depth without demanding too much thought from the viewer. The ending, while idealistic, ties things up in a satisfying way.

Rating: 3.75 “Jason Bateman Death Stares” out of 5

Carry-On’s mix of action, tension, and solid performances make it worth a watch.

While not groundbreaking, it’s a Netflix thriller that delivers where it counts: entertainment. Perfect for fans of Jason Bateman’s villainous charm and Taron Egerton’s edgy heroics.

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Is grounding flights under a terror threat, even on Christmas Eve, a realistic protocol?

Action and thriller movies where the bad guys are terrorists can be found in these titles: Thirst | Restore Point | Accused | Final Score have you covered.

Carry-On

Director: Jaume Collet-Serra

Date Created: 2024-12-13 21:08

Editor's Rating:
3.75