Mark Wahlberg has once again showcased his dedication to acting through significant physical transformations for his roles. Notably, he gained 20 pounds to portray a boxer-turned-priest in the film “Father Stu” and underwent a dramatic change for his role in the upcoming crime thriller “By Any Means.” Recently, he returned to a villainous persona in the action thriller “Flight Risk,” which has stirred mixed reactions from critics and audiences alike.
Wahlberg’s latest character, a hitman disguised as a pilot, marks his first full-fledged villain role since 1996’s “Fear.” However, “Flight Risk,” directed by Mel Gibson, failed at the box office, grossing only $48 million worldwide. The film premiered for streaming on HBO Max on November 26, generating controversy for its polarizing reception. Critics have been harsh, with some, like Mark Kermode, labeling it as “one of the worst films I’ve ever seen,” resulting in a dismal 29% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes. In contrast, audience reactions show a slightly more favorable sentiment, awarding it a 62% rating.
Despite the negative feedback, “Flight Risk” offers a nostalgic take on action thrillers, reminiscent of ’90s cinema with its over-the-top dialogue and absurd scenarios. While the script is filled with clichés and lacks character depth, Wahlberg’s portrayal of the unhinged pilot character has been highlighted as the film’s standout feature. The movie plays into its B-movie sensibilities, providing a laughable experience for viewers looking for light-hearted, campy entertainment.
As part of HBO Max’s November line-up, “Flight Risk” joins other notable films such as “A Christmas Story” and “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.” While not heralded as a cinematic masterpiece, it presents a quirky and amusing watch for those in search of a mindless action flick that revels in its own ridiculousness.