As a seasoned movie buff with a soft spot for action-packed thrillers, I must say that “Carry-On” has left quite an impression on me. Coming from someone who’s seen his fair share of heroes saving the world (or at least their corner of it), this film stands out as a breath of fresh air.
This holiday season, Netflix is pulling out all the stops with not only popular romances like “Hot Frosty” and “Our Little Secret,” but also action-packed films such as “Carry-On.” In this high-stakes movie, beloved actor Taron Egerton (“Kingsman”) takes on the role of TSA agent Ethan Kopek, while Jason Bateman, a multiple award-winning star from “Ozark,” portrays an unnamed passenger threatening to blackmail the officer into letting a hazardous package pass through airport security.
In this intense standoff, character Kopek finds himself in a dire predicament where he’s compelled to make one impossible choice after another, ultimately facing the agonizing decision of sacrificing his pregnant girlfriend Nora (Sofia Carson) or saving everyone on an unfortunate Christmas Eve flight. As the countdown to departure ticks away, these two adversaries engage in a nerve-wracking battle of minds, each striving to assert dominance over the situation. Drawing upon the spirit of the iconic 80s film “Die Hard” and offering more thrilling espionage action courtesy of its relatable hero, menacing antagonist, and high-stakes drama, “Carry-On” is an entertaining must-see, even if it strains credulity at times.
Carrying On the Action at Christmas Tradition
Ethan Kopek appears to be facing one challenge after another. Following an unexpected pregnancy from his girlfriend Nora, Kopek finds himself grappling with both his joy and the daunting revelation that he had imagined achieving more professionally before starting a family. Previously, as a rejected police-academy candidate and TSA agent who often let past setbacks hinder his professional progress, Kopek now seeks to alter his life for the sake of his loved ones, but remains uncertain about his aspirations. Nevertheless, he takes a bold step forward at LAX by persuading his superior to promote him to the role overseeing carry-on luggage screenings.
It turned out that the worst possible moment for a change had arrived. On Christmas Eve, as he started his first shift at his new job, an enigmatic traveler embarked on a clandestine operation: illegally moving a case filled with hazardous substances through Kopek’s alley. Wearing an earpiece to coordinate with Kopek, a sniper henchman, the passenger threatened Nora’s life and displayed the cool composure of a seasoned felon. He consistently rebuffed all of Kopek’s attempts to inform the authorities, erecting a barrier instead. However, Kopek was no longer just going through the motions, and he wasn’t about to let this new adversary slip away. In the end, who will outsmart whom, and at what cost in terms of casualties will their success be achieved?
Jason Bateman Gives a Compellingly Sinister Performance
As a devoted admirer, I must say that while Jason Bateman has made us laugh with iconic comedies like “Arrested Development” and “Horrible Bosses,” he’s shown he’s got more than just comedy chops. He’s delved into darker roles before, such as the money-laundering anti-hero Marty Byrde in “Ozark” and the deceptively sinister bully Simon in “The Gift.” What’s fascinating about Bateman is his ability to captivate us as a menacing figure, leaving audiences on edge with his seemingly ordinary demeanor that belies his malicious actions. His newest role as the villainous “Traveler” in “Carry-On” might just be his most chilling performance yet – it’s definitely the highlight of the film for me.
In a departure from typical action movie stereotypes, Carry-On presents a more realistic portrayal of criminals. Unlike the foreign terrorists often depicted in these films, these bad guys aren’t monstrous figures out of nightmares. Instead, they appear ordinary, much like anyone else we might encounter in our daily lives. Even a seemingly cool and collected character like Bateman is more terrifying to viewers because he embodies a scarier kind of monster than the international terrorist trope.
A Side of Taron Egerton We Don’t See in ‘Kingsman’
The movie “Carry-On” not only roots its villain in the real world, but also ensures that its hero is just as genuine. Unlike action films where characters seem almost invincible, performing extraordinary stunts, recovering from life-threatening wounds, and doing so with minimal outside assistance, this film takes a different approach. While it’s entertaining to see Egerton overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges as a Kingsman agent, portraying him as Kopek – tired, nauseous, prone to errors, yet driven by good intentions – feels authentic and refreshing.
The character appears authentic and compassionate; he’s a man who navigates a crisis primarily using his inherent kindness, love for justice, and inventiveness. Audience members can appreciate his realistic responses to an unusual and dangerous predicament (interspersed with some impressive displays of toughness), finding both empathy towards Kopek and a sense of shared experience as they live vicariously through him.
Where ‘Carry-On’ Stumbles
The movie isn’t perfect; there are some issues that detract from its impact. The relationship between Kopek and Nora feels forced, which reduces our emotional connection to their story because she is such a crucial driving factor in his actions. Also, certain deaths of side characters aren’t handled effectively. While it could be intended to show the hectic environment of the airport or Kopek’s intense focus on the dangerous package, these deaths feel more like plot devices than genuine tragedies for the audience.
As a movie critic, I found myself puzzled when a horde of travelers, airport staff, cameras, and even the LAPD seemed to turn a blind eye as the mysterious Traveler and his companions pulled off seemingly impossible feats without any consequences. The scene where someone was brutally stabbed in broad daylight, surrounded by numerous witnesses, left me baffled as the attacker simply vanished without a trace – such an occurrence would usually cause quite a stir, even at a bustling airport like LAX during the holiday season. This apparent indifference from everyone involved on-screen is rather unsettling and took me out of the immersion of the story.
Regardless, Carry-On is still a worthwhile watch. It’s the kind of exciting premise to make moviegoers move to the edge of their seats because of its expert blend of high stakes and realism. Plus, audiences can now add another flick to their Christmas-versus-action-movie debate just in time for the holidays. Now streaming on Netflix.
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2024-12-17 01:01