Carry-On Review
On the night before Christmas, the atmosphere on a plane was calm until chaos ensued with the arrival of a dubious character. As holiday-themed shows and movies fill platforms like Netflix, one unexpected gem has emerged from the seasonal clutter: “Carry-On.” Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, known for his skill in creating suspenseful stories set in confined spaces, this airport thriller provides viewers with an exciting alternative to the usual holiday fare.
The film is set on a bustling Christmas Eve at LAX. Taron Egerton stars as Ethan Kopek, a bored TSA agent who took the job to impress his girlfriend, Nora, played by Sofia Carson. With a baby on the way, Ethan seeks a path to a brighter future by asking for a promotion to operate airport x-ray machines. However, his ambitions collide with the arrival of a mysterious traveler, played by Jason Bateman, who insists on getting his suspicious bag past security without incident, threatening dire consequences for Nora if Ethan fails to comply.
What follows is a gripping game of cat and mouse as Ethan attempts to dismantle the traveler’s plans while facing constant obstacles. Collet-Serra expertly ratchets up the tension, utilizing the airport setting to create a stressful atmosphere. Rather than relying on extravagant action sequences, the story maintains suspense through clever dialogue and strategic maneuvers as Ethan tries to stay one step ahead.
Egerton showcases his endearing charm reminiscent of his Kingsman role, providing a lighter tone to the thriller. Bateman’s performance stands out as he injects humor into the character of the nefarious traveler, balancing intimidation with wit—providing a blend of amusing insults and life advice that’s both engaging and entertaining. While the film does touch upon deeper emotional stakes through the relationships of Ethan’s coworkers, it falls short of fully developing other characters, particularly LAPD detective Elena Cole, played by Danielle Deadwyler.
Despite this, “Carry-On” manages to deliver a fresh take on a thriller, mixing holiday themes with tension-filled storytelling. It is a reminder that not all holiday films need to fit neatly into the comfort zone of Christmas clichés. With its engaging plot and solid performances, this movie stands as an enjoyable watch during the festivities.
In summary, “Carry-On” offers a unique and thrilling twist on the holiday genre, making it a worthwhile addition to the Christmas viewing lineup. Instead of traditional cheer, it provides excitement and suspense—proving that even in the most festive times, storytelling can take unexpected turns.