This holiday season, Netflix is making waves with the release of two impactful films, 'Carry-On' and 'The Six Triple Eight,' reflecting changing viewer preferences and significant historical narratives.
'Carry-On,' which premiered on December 13, has rapidly emerged as one of Netflix's most successful releases this year, racking up 97 million hours watched within its first 10 days alone. Data from ComicBook.com indicates the film has been viewed 42 million times within just four days, and it continues to gain traction, potentially positioning it to compete with the platform's all-time hits.
This action thriller follows the story of TSA agent Jackson (played by Taron Egerton), who finds himself caught in high-stakes drama when he is blackmailed by a mysterious traveler, portrayed by Jason Bateman. Jackson must use every resource at his disposal to navigate the dangers posed by the threat to his pregnant girlfriend (Sofia Carson) and avert disaster mid-flight. Despite receiving mixed reviews—with audiences giving it 55% on Rotten Tomatoes compared to critics who rated it at 88%—the gripping storyline has left viewers eager for more, sparking discussions for potential sequels.
Meanwhile, another film trending among audiences is 'The Six Triple Eight,' starring Kerry Washington as U.S. Army Maj. Charity Adams Earley, who made history during World War II. Directed by Tyler Perry, the film chronicles the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion, the first Black Women's Army Corps unit sent overseas. During the war, they tackled the monumental task of sorting through millions of pieces of undelivered mail intended for soldiers and their families, highlighting the battalion's grit and resourcefulness.
Adams Earley, born 1918, showcased remarkable leadership and determination, breaking through racial barriers during her service. Her commendable achievements continued post-war, where she excelled academically and contributed significantly to various civic engagements before passing away at age 83. Laura Bischoff from the USA TODAY Network reported extensively on Adams Earley's legacy, detailing her academic pursuits and her influential role within the community of Dayton, Ohio.
The significance of these films goes beyond mere entertainment; they deliver powerful narratives during the festive season and reflect Netflix's commitment to diversify its content. The success of 'Carry-On' and the historical portrayal within 'The Six Triple Eight' are indicators of growing viewer interest not only in thriller genres but also poignant stories inspired by real-life figures and events.
These films emerge from Netflix's strategy, responding to audience preference tails during the holidays, which have historically favored lighter films. The shift toward action thrillers and serious dramas highlights Netflix's adaptability and vision to capture varied viewer interests. It’s clear both films have struck chords with audiences, solidifying their place as notable offerings this December.
