Flight Risk: Why You Should Ignore Critics and Embrace the ’90s Style Throwback Thriller

Since the release of “Flight Risk,” the gripping thriller starring Mark Wahlberg, directed by Mel Gibson, in the early lineup of 2025 movies, I’ve noticed quite a few negative reviews. However, allow me to share my perspective… Over the opening weekend, I immensely enjoyed watching this nostalgic suspenseful rollercoaster ride alongside a packed theater of fellow cinema enthusiasts. It was surprisingly well-received!

The movie does have some flaws, yet it wasn’t that I went into it expecting a masterpiece like Conclave or other contemporary thrillers. Despite its problems and contrary to many negative reviews, Flight Risk managed to be quite impressive in its unique way. While I understand not everyone might share my view (I’m aware I’m an exception here), at least give me a chance to explain why I found it enjoyable…

Flight Risk Isn’t The Best Movie Ever Made, But It’s Actually More Fun Than I Expected

To begin with, I’ll make it clear: “Flight Risk” isn’t the greatest film ever produced. Frankly, it doesn’t even rank as my favorite movie from January 2025 (that title goes to “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” for now). However, despite its flaws, this movie was quite entertaining and turned out to be much more enjoyable than the initial trailer suggested. I must admit that the bald Mark Wahlberg scene from the teaser was particularly well-done.

Despite receiving a rather mediocre 26% rating on Rotten Tomatoes as of now, it’s worth noting that the movie “Flight Risk” has a more encouraging 63% Audience Score. This audience score seems to be a more reliable gauge for a film like this, considering user feedback suggests many found it enjoyable. The movie doesn’t get too bogged down in seriousness, offers some exciting action sequences, and Mark Wahlberg’s character is quite entertaining, even without his distinctive Southern accent.

Flight Risk Feels Like Something Right Out Of The ’90s, And I’m All About It

If you were to say that “Flight Risk” is an unproduced script from the 1990s that Mel Gibson has been holding onto, I would find your statement very plausible. With its intense thriller vibe, it seems as if this film was created during the ’90s, a time when action movies were at their peak. In fact, it reminds me of classic plane-related action films like “Air Force One,” “Passenger 57,” and “Con Air.” This Mark Wahlberg movie fits perfectly within that genre.

In a more straightforward and conversational way: This movie seems to echo the style of ’90s action thrillers, with its plot, acting, direction, and special effects reminding me of that era. Since I used to watch those films on HBO, TNT, and AMC back then, recognizing similarities in this new film felt nostalgic and helped me overlook its flaws.

I Love A Good ‘Chamber Piece’ Setup, And Flight Risk Gave Me That

I’ve consistently appreciated movies with a “Chamber Piece” structure, such as “12 Angry Men,” “Gravity,” “Panic Room,” and now “Flight Risk.” The latter fits well within this category, as its 90-minute thrill ride is predominantly focused on the events unfolding in a single, confined space: a weathered propeller plane soaring above Alaska’s mountain ranges. I believe this setting contributes to a more engaging film experience.

Throughout the movie, all the suspense and excitement unfolded within a single setting, keeping me engrossed in the storyline without any distractions. From the moment the main characters boarded the plane until their nail-biting emergency landing, I was right there with them inside the aircraft cabin.

Though His Big Reveal Was Given Away In The Trailer, Mark Wahlberg’s Character Is Something Wild

The first time I watched the trailer for “Flight Risk” before Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis” last autumn left me astonished. It seemed to unveil a major plot twist that Mark Wahlberg’s character, who claimed to be a pilot, was actually someone else. Although this revelation initially disappointed me, it turned out to have minimal effect on my deep affection for the character. In fact, Wahlberg’s portrayal of his first genuine villain since “Fear” was nothing short of extraordinary. It was so captivating that I found myself yearning for another movie solely focused on this intriguing antagonist.

In the last scene, Wahlberg’s exaggerated accent, his extreme baldness, expressive facial gestures, constant gum-chewing, menacing gaze, the way he says “Y’all need a pilot,” and overall aggressive demeanor, make this one of his most intense and wildest performances in recent memory. Frankly, I could use more of that intensity from him.

Without Going Into Specifics, There Are So Many Twists And Turns (Some Predictable, Others Not So Much)

The fact that Mark Wahlberg’s villainous role is hinted at in the trailer doesn’t mean that “Flight Risk” won’t have unexpected plot twists. Similar to many classic thrillers, Mel Gibson’s latest directorial work, following his work on “Hacksaw Ridge,” packs a punch with numerous surprises during its final minutes. Some of these twists can be foreseen while others keep you guessing, much like the best thrillers do. To avoid spoilers, let me say that there are instances where trusting your instincts is wise, and others when the simplest solution might be the best choice.

On the other hand, there were some characters who I expected might turn out to be villains, yet I was happily taken aback when they didn’t. To be honest, this unexpected twist was quite invigorating and added to my overall appreciation of the film.

Can We Get More 90-Minute Thrillers Like This?

I’m quite fond of extended films, having watched The Brutalist in cinemas twice recently, but it was refreshing to switch things up with a 90-minute thriller such as Flight Risk. To be honest, movies nowadays tend to overstay their welcome. However, a compact, old-school thriller like Flight Risk, which follows a U.S. Marshal helping a federal witness testify against the mob, doesn’t need an excessive amount of time. In fact, its brief runtime made the entire viewing experience more enjoyable.

The film managed to avoid being overcrowded or complicated by excess characters, storylines, or unnecessary elements. It was streamlined, efficient with its narrative pace, and nearly all extraneous parts were removed. Ideally, this lean approach should be more common, particularly for action-thriller genres like this one.

As a movie lover, I’ve learned that just because a film like “Flight Risk” gets negative criticism, it doesn’t mean I can’t find pleasure in watching it according to my personal taste. After all, the joy of cinema lies in the eye of the beholder!

2025-02-05 02:39