Carry-On Review: It is a Christmas Movie

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Carry-On is a gripping thriller that stands out as one of Netflix’s better releases this year. Starring Taron Egerton and Jason Bateman, the movie channels the energy of classics like Die Hard—yes, that quintessential Christmas action movie—and manages to carve its own niche in the holiday thriller genre. While some scenes might feel fabricated or slightly far-fetched, the overall experience is a thrilling ride worth taking.

Ethan has faced his share of struggles. Once aspiring to join the police force, his dream was dashed when he was rejected from the academy. Now working as a TSA agent, Ethan’s life seems stuck in neutral until a minor promotion lands him in the midst of a high-stakes plot to smuggle something through airport security and onto a plane. The premise is simple, but it serves as a springboard for a tightly woven narrative filled with suspense and tension.

Taron Egerton delivers a standout performance as Ethan, with Sofia Carson and Jason Bateman also bringing their A-game. I have yet to see a Taron Egerton performance that didn’t rock, Black Bird and Tetris being my two favourites of late. The acting across the board is impressive, but it’s the leads who truly shine. Egerton brings depth and relatability to Ethan, while Bateman adds his signature gravitas to the enigmatic Traveler.

Sofia Carson adds an emotional touch, giving Egerton’s character stakes outside himself. Her character is more than a damsel in distressing, showing she’s can handle herself in the second half. The supporting cast is also noteworthy, as the movie deftly uses secondary characters to heighten the stakes. These characters may only appear briefly, but the writers manage to make their fates matter, a testament to the film’s strong storytelling.

The plot is another highlight. At its core, the story explores Ethan’s disillusionment with his life and his struggles to find purpose. This undercurrent of personal struggle runs throughout the movie, adding layers to the narrative and grounding the action in emotional reality.

Meanwhile, the terror plot is meticulously crafted, keeping viewers on edge as Ethan navigates an increasingly perilous situation. The cinematography enhances this tension, employing clever camera angles, smooth transitions, and a masterful use of music and sound effects to create an atmosphere of constant unease.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is the way it builds its central conflict. Every detail of the crime is carefully thought out, and each time Ethan believes he’s found a way to outmaneuver the antagonists, the plan is already accounted for. Watching the layers of the plot unfold is as satisfying as it is nerve-wracking. The exacting nature of the crime and the way it unravels is a testament to the film’s meticulous writing.

The holiday setting adds another layer of complexity. Airports during Christmas are a unique blend of chaos and sentimentality, and Carry-On captures this atmosphere perfectly. The juxtaposition of festive cheer with mounting dread creates a dynamic backdrop that elevates the story. Ethan’s isolation amidst the holiday bustle is both poignant and relatable, further drawing the audience into his plight.

That said, Carry-On isn’t without its flaws. Some moments strain logic, like Ethan casually inserting a random lost airport headset into his ear or talking to himself in situations where it’s implausible no one would notice. These aren’t plot holes, but they do stretch reality quite a bit. However, these minor quibbles don’t detract significantly from the overall experience.

The movie also excels in its thematic depth. At its heart, it’s a story about isolation and resilience, set against the bustling backdrop of a holiday airport. Ethan’s loneliness amidst the chaos of Christmas travel is palpable, adding another layer of tension to the narrative. The film also taps into a universal fear, making the terror plot feel chillingly plausible. It’s the kind of movie that lingers in your mind, making you ponder the fragility of security in our modern world.

Several scenes stand out, but the initial conversation between Ethan and Traveler is particularly memorable, setting the stage for the high-stakes drama to come. The climactic sequences towards the end are equally impressive, delivering the kind of edge-of-your-seat action that thriller fans crave. Additionally, the quieter moments, like Ethan grappling with his past failures, add emotional weight that balances the adrenaline-fueled plot.

In the end, Carry-On is a triumph for Netflix, proving that the platform can still deliver high-quality original films. While it has its share of minor imperfections, the strong performances, solid plot, and masterful tension make it a must-watch. It’s a holiday thriller that not only entertains but also resonates on a deeper level. If Netflix releases a few gems each year, Carry-On is undoubtedly one of them. For those who enjoy a blend of action, suspense, and heartfelt storytelling, this movie is a holiday treat that shouldn’t be missed.