Carry-On: Movie Review

Carry-On Movie Review: Holiday Baggage

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Action films and Christmas - a tradition as enduring as the holiday itself. Netflix attempts to tap into this unique magic with "Carry-On", starring Taron Egerton as an airport security agent who finds himself blackmailed into letting a dangerous piece of luggage slip through his scanner. The film might best be described as a silly yet entertaining ride, one that requires audiences to suspend disbelief to enjoy its action-packed moments fully.


Ethan Kopek (Taron Egerton) is a security agent at LAX who has just discovered he is going to be a father. On Christmas Eve - the airport’s busiest night - he’s eager to prove himself worthy of a promotion and lands a chance to man the X-ray machine. But his ambitions take a dark turn when a mysterious traveler threatens him, forcing him to be an accomplice to smuggle a mysterious carry-on onto a flight. Ethan is faced with an impossible choice: save one life or risk the lives of many.


At its core, "Carry-On" feels like a throwback to '90s action films, with clear aspirations of becoming a modern-day "Die Hard" counterpart. While some familiar story beats are present, it ultimately falls short of matching the iconic holiday classic. Still, the film has its merits. Taron Egerton delivers a compelling performance as the everyman protagonist, balancing vulnerability and grit. Jason Bateman, stepping out of his usual comedic roles, shines as the cunning and cutthroat villain - his subdued yet menacing demeanor adds an edge to the narrative. The film also boasts a few standout action sequences, including an intense car chase on a freeway that recalls the raw energy of a "Kingsman" film. However, "Carry-On" often stumbles under the weight of its own implausibility. Some plot points stretch believability to the breaking point, even for an action film. These convoluted setups repeatedly disrupt the immersion, making it difficult to stay engaged. Despite its flaws, "Carry-On" is not without charm. If you’re willing to embrace the over-the-top scenarios and focus on the spectacle, it offers an enjoyable holiday diversion. It may not redefine the genre, but it’s an entertaining option for those undecided on what to watch during the festive season.


Rating: 3 reels


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