Carry-On, a new thriller on Netflix, has sparked the age-old debate about what constitutes a Christmas movie, much like the enduring discussion surrounding Die Hard. While set against the backdrop of the holiday season, Carry-On’s Christmas connection is arguably superficial, similar to Die Hard. Ultimately, the classification rests on individual interpretation, allowing viewers to define their own criteria for a festive film. While Carry-On may not attain the iconic status of Die Hard, nor the enduring charm of holiday classics, it offers an entertaining blend of action and suspense, seasoned with a sprinkle of Christmas spirit.
The plot of Carry-On centers around Ethan Kopek, a TSA agent portrayed by Taron Egerton, whose mundane existence is punctuated by his loving relationship with his pregnant girlfriend, Nora, played by Sofia Carson. Nora’s Christmas wish for Ethan to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer foreshadows the dramatic turn of events that unfolds. The arrival of a mysterious antagonist known as Traveler, chillingly portrayed by Jason Bateman, throws Ethan’s life into chaos. Traveler, using Nora and her unborn child as leverage, coerces Ethan into facilitating the passage of a suspicious suitcase through security, setting in motion a chain of events that tests Ethan’s resourcefulness and moral compass.
The narrative unfolds as a tense cat-and-mouse game between Ethan and Traveler, punctuated by escalating stakes and near-misses. Ethan finds himself caught in a desperate struggle to thwart Traveler’s sinister plan, all while protecting his girlfriend and their unborn child. Danielle Deadwyler, as Detective Elena Cole, adds another layer to the unfolding drama, her investigation of a seemingly unrelated murder leading her directly into the heart of the airport crisis. The Rossi and Dean Norris round out the supporting cast, portraying Traveler’s accomplice, Watcher, and Ethan’s boss, respectively. While the ensemble cast contributes to the overall narrative, the core of the film remains firmly focused on the dynamic between Ethan and Traveler.
Carry-On’s strength lies in its ability to maintain a taut atmosphere of suspense and its brisk pacing. The film avoids unnecessary complexities, keeping the narrative streamlined and engaging. The most compelling scenes often revolve around the verbal sparring between Ethan and Traveler, highlighting the psychological tension at play. While the film features action sequences, they are more measured and less explosive than those seen in Die Hard, placing greater emphasis on suspense and strategic maneuvering rather than outright spectacle.
While Carry-On succeeds in delivering a thrilling narrative, its conclusion leaves certain plot threads dangling, raising questions that remain unanswered. This unresolved aspect, while potentially frustrating for some viewers, also adds an element of intrigue. Furthermore, the film’s script, while serviceable, lacks the memorable punchlines and quotable dialogue that elevate films to classic status. It’s unlikely to become a repeat viewing experience, not due to any glaring flaws, but rather the absence of exceptionally memorable moments.
Carry-On offers a unique blend of action and suspense, set against the backdrop of the holiday season. While it may not reach the heights of a Christmas classic or an all-time great thriller, it provides a solid and entertaining viewing experience. The film’s taut pacing, coupled with the compelling performances of Egerton and Bateman, keeps audiences engaged from beginning to end. While the script may not be particularly memorable and the ending leaves some unanswered questions, Carry-On ultimately delivers a satisfying dose of holiday-themed suspense and action.
The film’s categorization as a Christmas movie, much like Die Hard before it, is likely to remain a matter of personal preference. The holiday setting, while present, is not integral to the central narrative, serving more as a backdrop than a driving force. However, for those seeking a thrilling escapade with a hint of Christmas flavor, Carry-On offers a worthwhile viewing experience. It manages to avoid the pitfalls of many holiday-themed films, delivering a story that is both engaging and suspenseful without relying on overly sentimental or predictable tropes. While it may not become a perennial holiday favorite, it provides a solid and entertaining option for those seeking a break from traditional Christmas fare. Carry-On offers a refreshing alternative, a thriller that happens to take place during the holidays, providing a thrilling escape rather than a heartwarming celebration. It’s a film that embraces the tension and suspense of the thriller genre, using the holiday setting as a backdrop rather than a defining characteristic. It’s a holiday film for those who prefer their festive season with a dash of suspense and a side of action.
