Is Mel Gibson’s ‘Flight Risk’ Doomed Before It Even Takes Off?

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“Flight Risk” looks like anything but … on paper.

Filmmaker Mel Gibson has delivered movies such as “Apocalypto,” “Hacksaw Ridge,” and “The Passion of the Christ.” To most, this is an undeniably impressive filmography.

The established actor Mark Wahlberg, recognized in Hollywood for his expertise in action-thrillers, seems to be deviating from his typical roles based on initial reports.

That’s another intriguing angle. Plus, the trailer looks like catnip for genre fans.

As a movie enthusiast, I’m usually eager to catch a glimpse of a new film before its late Thursday release. However, there are instances where I have to wait until the last possible moment to share my thoughts on it. Sometimes, this delay in reviewing seems to hint that the studio may not be entirely confident about the movie’s quality. Other critics, as reported by World of Reel, face a similar predicament.

Such a review restriction raises another concern. Why, though? According to our assessment, it’s possible that the reviews might be influenced by the presence of Mel Gibson in the film.

Critics are no doubt already sharpening their knives against Gibson’s film.

Despite the setback of his downfall from public favor, which might have sunk his career, he has managed to rejuvenate and gradually regain his footing in the industry over a period of time.

Despite the fact that others continue to criticize him for his over-the-top behavior, it’s not hard to see why. After all, he has made some extremely offensive and hurtful statements. It’s puzzling to many, including Variety, that Gibson continues to have a career in the industry, as expressed in a passionate 2020 editorial piece.

It wouldn’t be unreasonable to think that some film critics might harbor lingering resentment due to that incident. Additionally, there seems to be another factor at work, a relatively new event that may cause certain critics to take issue with Mel Gibson’s latest movie.

Towards the close of the 2024 presidential race, the prominent figure openly criticized the former Vice President Kamala Harris. He expressed that she had an intellectual capacity similar to a wooden fence post.

He also threw his support behind Donald Trump at the same time.

Lately, President Trump tapped an actor-turned-director to head an unofficial team with the aim of reviving the “Golden Era” in Hollywood.

It’s not beneficial for Gibson to have a connection with Trump, especially in liberal Hollywood and among film critics.

Gibson faces no advantages due to his association with Trump in the progressive entertainment industry or among film critics.

Movie reviewers lean overwhelmingly to the Left, and it’s reflected in select reviews. Consider the chasm between professional critics and general audiences vis a vis last year’s “Reagan” biopic.

This weekend, movie enthusiasts can form their own opinions as “Flight Risk” officially opens in wide release. Occasionally, withholding reviews by the studio before release has its merits.

The critical community will not be kind and rightfully so.

Nevertheless, certain movies have been shielded from review by critics but still managed impressive box office earnings or provided satisfying viewing experiences for audiences.

The mystery comes into focus once “Flight Risk” opens Thursday night.

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2025-01-23 01:03