Netflix's latest action thriller, Carry-On, directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, has emerged as the streaming platform's most viewed original film of the year, captivating audiences with its compelling holiday-themed narrative. Released earlier this month, the film has already garnered over 42 million views within the first five days of streaming, signaling its status as the biggest opening for any Netflix original film since its inception.
Set against the backdrop of the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Carry-On follows Ethan (portrayed by Taron Egerton), a TSA agent who finds himself ensnared in a dangerous game of blackmail. Just as holiday cheer fills the airport on Christmas Eve, Ethan discovers what appears to be an innocuous earbud, only to be thrust headfirst down a rabbit hole when a mysterious traveler, played by Jason Bateman, uses the device to coerce him. The sinister task? To help smuggle what turns out to be a deadly package onto a flight.
The film's unique premise is compounded by its success with critics; it currently boasts an impressive 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, positioning it favorably as it competes with other holiday releases. The film's thrilling elements blend humor and anxiety, echoing classic action flicks like Die Hard, giving way to debates about its classification as either a Christmas movie or simply another action reel.
Filming at the airport provided authenticity rarely seen on screen, adding depth to the environment, which the cast describes as almost character-like due to its familiarity to travelers everywhere. The on-location shooting allowed for scenes laden with tension as characters navigated through the airport's underbelly, bringing to light the often-invisible struggles airport personnel deal with daily.
Danielle Deadwyler, who plays LAPD detective Elena Cole, delivered riveting insights about shooting one of the film’s most exhilarating action sequences: the chaotic car crash scene. Describing the preparation as "two to three months of prep," Deadwyler emphasized the precision involved: "It's...a dance, it's a ballet of sorts and so you're just trying to make sure you're hitting the spots." This scene stands as a pivotal moment, altering the tone of the film midway through as its genre shifts from grounded thriller to high-octane action.
This pivotal car crash, where Elena battles with the faux Agent Alcott, was not only challenging to film but also exemplified the film’s transition. Instead of maintaining its initial suspense, the second half of Carry-On erupts with adrenaline, showcasing not just action but moments of emotional vulnerability, particularly reflecting Ethan's turmoil amid the chaos.
What makes Carry-On truly special is how it integrates both action sequences and meaningful character development. Sofia Carson, who portrays Ethan's girlfriend Nora, recounts her experience filming her own gripping chase scene where her character defies the trope of being just another damsel. “I didn’t want Nora to ever feel like a damsel in distress,” Carson stated. “I wanted her to be able to save herself,” highlighting the film’s emphasis on empowerment amid peril.
Carson also noted the importance of her chemistry with Egerton, saying, “It's always exciting to have a scene partner of his caliber.” Their relationship not only grounds the film but also enriches its emotional stakes, as Nora symbolizes the support and determination Ethan needs to reclaim his own agency.
Director Jaume Collet-Serra’s vision weaves together these components seamlessly, making the airport not merely a setting but also part of the narrative’s core. Audiences watch with both anticipation and exhilaration as characters weave through terminals, all the time racing against the clock to avert disaster.
Looking beyond its thrilling elements, Carry-On captures the spirit of the season as much as it embraces uncertainty and confrontation. With dialogues posing questions about morality, sacrifice, and responsibility, it resonates during this festive period even as chaos ensues. Critically, it raises engagement around the globe, indicative of Netflix's continuing aim to captivate and entertain viewers worldwide.
When asked if Carry-On qualifies as a Christmas movie, Carson humorously framed it as a “Christmaction” film, mirroring the holiday joy against the backdrop of suspense. It sets the stage for future festive films, leaving folk wondering what other surprises Netflix might have up its sleeves.
Carry-On isn't just another entry on the blockbuster list; it marks the evolution of genre-bending films where the holidays and hard-hitting action can coexist, proving there's no shortage of creativity or thrill.
