‘Fight or Flight’ Review: Josh Hartnett Continues Recent Winning Streak in Enjoyably Trashy Action Flick

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A fresh and exciting mythology related to action movies has recently surfaced, where it’s suggested that the world is teeming with professional killers. These assassins have their own high-end hotel in the John Wick series, and they often travel together in groups, as shown in Bullet Train. In a new over-the-top action-comedy, directed by James Madigan and featuring Josh Hartnett, dozens of these assassins have taken a flight – marking another phase in Hartnett’s career resurgence, commonly referred to as the ‘Hartnettaissance’. The movie is titled Fight or Flight.

In a remarkable return to the silver screen after many years away, the actor has shone brilliantly in films like “Oppenheimer” and M. Night Shyamalan’s “Trap”. Now, he gives an outstanding performance as a retired government operative called upon for a perilous task. His captivating charm and unexpected knack for physical humor transform this B-grade film into something akin to A-list quality, despite the occasional constraints of its limited budget and uneven tonal changes.

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After a long break from acting, the actor has made an impressive comeback with movies like “Oppenheimer” and “Trap” directed by M. Night Shyamalan. In this film, he plays a retired government agent tasked with a risky mission. His charm and unexpected talent for physical comedy breathe new life into this B-movie, elevating it to near A-class status, despite its budgetary restrictions and inconsistent shifts in tone.

For the most part, this film is a thrilling journey that’s perfect for anyone who’s ever endured numb limbs from a long flight. The bulk of the action, which includes an initial scene hinting at the intense violence ahead, unfolds as fight sequences set on a crowded airplane.

As a devoted admirer, let me share with you the gist of this narrative: I’ve found myself in a thrilling journey that doesn’t delve into its origins too deeply, but here’s a brief summary. The tale revolves around Lucas Reyes (Hartnett), an ex-government operative who’s been laying low in Thailand for the past two years following a disastrous operation. His tranquil life is disrupted when his old boss and former flame, Katherine Brunt (Katee Sackhoff), comes calling. In a desperate bid to capture The Ghost, a cyber-terrorist with an enigmatic identity, Katherine needs Lucas’s expertise. Rumors suggest that this elusive figure is aboard a flight from Bangkok bound for San Francisco.

Reyes finds himself in an unsuitable condition for the assignment, having deteriorated into a state of drunkenness, donning tropical Hawaiian shirts, and sporting a less than perfect bleached hairdo. However, he reluctantly takes on the task and before long, he’s boarded a crowded jumbo jet. Seated next to him is an overly talkative entertainer who exhibits his dance moves to amuse Reyes. Yet, as with many other passengers, this chatty companion turns out to be more than meets the eye.

In the end, Reyes uncovers that the aircraft is packed with assassins intent on eliminating the Ghost and him. He later enlists a spirited flight attendant named Isha (Charithra Chandran, quite different from her role in Bridgerton) and her somewhat frantic coworker Royce (Danny Ashok, amusing) as allies. This leads to Reyes fighting off numerous opponents, making new friends such as the Ghost, whose true identity leaves a surprising impression.

Essentially, Madigan, who has experience as a second-unit director for big-budget films like Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and The Meg, uses this project as an opportunity to create intricately planned fight sequences in tight spaces. Notably, he and his skilled team employ almost every object you’d find on an airplane as a potential deadly tool.

As a fervent admirer, I’d say Brooks McLaren and D.J. Cotrona’s screenplay is brimming with humor, evident in scenes where, already tipsy from the fight, Reyes continues his brutal combat even after being heavily drugged. When his adversary questions his ability to stand, Reyes nonchalantly remarks, “You can’t pickle a pickle,” implying he’s as resilient as a pickle! In another instance, compelled to fight while under the influence of a psychedelic trip from toad venom, adds an extra layer of amusement to the script.

It’s advisable to warn the Thai government about potential security weaknesses in their airports, given the alarming number of weapons found on a recent flight, such as guns, knives, and even a chainsaw. This discovery sets the stage for one of the movie’s most thrilling scenes, complete with Elvis Costello’s energizing “Pump It Up” playing in the background. In terms of the firearms, it might have been helpful for the assassins to watch Goldfinger, as it demonstrates the risks associated with firing weapons while on an airplane.

Fight or Flight is a blast to watch, especially if you’re prepared for the abundant violence and can leave your intellect at the door. The film stands out due to Hartnett’s passionate performance, which vacillates between a rough-around-the-edges John Wick and a Looney Tunes-esque punching bag. Hartnett clearly understands the humor in the role, diving headfirst into the chaotic madness with an enthusiasm that’s hard to resist.

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2025-05-08 07:54