If you’re in the mood for a Christmas-themed action thriller, Netflix’s “Carry-On” might be the adrenaline shot you’re looking for. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and starring Taron Egerton, the film plays out like a festive homage to Die Hard. But while it packs moments of suspense and a few jaw-dropping set pieces, it doesn’t entirely live up to its ambitious premise. Here’s a breakdown of what works and what doesn’t in this holiday airport showdown.
A High-Stakes Setup That Grabs You Early
The plot kicks off on Christmas Eve at the bustling Los Angeles International Airport. Ethan Kopek (Egerton), a TSA agent stuck in a professional and personal rut, finds himself blackmailed into allowing a mysterious package through security. The stakes? His pregnant wife’s life and countless others if he doesn’t comply.
Jason Bateman plays the menacing villain, known only as the Traveler, with chilling effectiveness. His calculated ruthlessness sets the tone for a tense game of cat-and-mouse. If you’ve been craving a high-octane thriller, the premise alone should hook you.
Taron Egerton: A Star Vehicle with Mixed Results
At its core, Carry-On feels like a showcase for Egerton. As Ethan, he’s likable, determined, and occasionally even Cruise-esque in his high-speed sprints and death-defying determination. However, Egerton struggles to fully inhabit the “everyman-turned-hero” archetype. While his performance is compelling at times, his character lacks the gritty relatability of Bruce Willis in Die Hard or the resilient fortitude of Matt Damon in the Bourne franchise.
The film leans heavily on Egerton’s ability to balance vulnerability and action-star charisma, and while he’s captivating in moments, the uneven writing and character development undermine his efforts. As a result, the audience is left rooting for him more out of obligation than emotional connection.
The Villain Steals the Show
Jason Bateman’s portrayal of the Traveler is a standout. Known for his typically amiable roles, Bateman goes full villain here, exuding an unsettling calmness that makes his character all the more menacing. His quiet but deadly demeanor provides much of the tension, and it’s refreshing to see him embrace such a dark role without winking at the audience.
A Mixed Bag of Action and Pacing
Collet-Serra delivers a handful of edge-of-your-seat moments, including a brutal car fight and the constant chaos of the airport setting. The visuals are sleek, with the film’s simulated LAX looking cleaner and more organized than the real thing—a small Christmas miracle in itself.
However, the film falters in its pacing. The first half feels sluggish, bogged down by expository dialogue and thin character backstories. Ethan’s struggle to reclaim his dream of becoming a police officer and his impending fatherhood are meant to add emotional stakes, but they feel more like checkboxes than genuine character layers.
It’s only in the second half, when the film fully embraces its absurdity, that it becomes truly enjoyable. The action escalates into over-the-top territory, and suddenly, it’s fun. Danielle Deadwyler’s arrival as a determined detective adds a new layer of urgency, and the film finds its rhythm when it stops taking itself too seriously.
Where It Falls Short
While Carry-On delivers on its promise of holiday thrills, it doesn’t fully capitalize on its intriguing moral premise. The central question—what’s in the bag, and how far would you go to protect those you love?—feels underexplored. Instead of diving into the ethical dilemmas that could elevate the story, the film relies on its performers to fill in the emotional gaps.
Egerton’s charm and Bateman’s menace keep the plot moving, but the script doesn’t invest enough in its characters to make their decisions feel impactful. The result is a film that’s entertaining but emotionally hollow.
Verdict: A Seasonal Thriller Worth a Watch (If You’re in the Mood)
Carry-On is far from perfect, but it’s still a solid option for fans of tense action flicks. Its Christmas setting, sleek direction, and engaging performances make it a decent addition to your holiday watchlist. Just don’t expect it to redefine the genre—or leave a lasting impression.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
Available on Netflix: December 13, 2024.
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