In a surprising twist, Netflix’s latest original action thriller Carry-On has soared to the #1 spot on the platform’s Top 10 movie list, toppling It Ends With Us after just a few days at the top. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and featuring a star-studded cast, this tense holiday thriller has captured the audience’s attention with its gripping premise and stellar performances.
Starring Taron Egerton (Kingsman) and Jason Bateman (Arrested Development), Carry-On takes place on Christmas Eve at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Egerton plays Ethan Kopek, a young TSA agent striving for more responsibility in his job, only to find himself ensnared in a deadly plot. Bateman, in a villainous turn, plays a mysterious traveler who blackmails Ethan into allowing a dangerous package to pass security checkpoints—threatening dire consequences if he fails to comply.
The film is helmed by Collet-Serra, known for his ability to craft transport-based thrillers like Non-Stop and The Commuter. He deftly blends elements of tension and action in Carry-On, balancing high-stakes drama with moments of humor and emotional depth.
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A Festive Thriller That Delivers
While Netflix is often flooded with Hallmark-style holiday fare this time of year, Carry-On stands apart as a refreshing break from the saccharine romances and quirky Christmas clichés. It has been well-received by critics, holding an impressive 86% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s ability to merge festive cheer with taut suspense has earned it praise as one of Netflix’s better holiday offerings.
Egerton delivers a captivating performance as Ethan, bringing his signature boyish charm to the role of a cocky but endearing protagonist caught in a game of cat-and-mouse. Bateman, meanwhile, steals the show with a charismatic portrayal of the antagonist, combining menacing threats with dry humor and surprising philosophical musings. Supporting performances from Sofia Carson and Dean Norris add emotional stakes and comedic relief to the high-octane narrative.
Thrills, Action, and Holiday Spirit
The film’s action sequences—ranging from a scuffle on a baggage conveyor belt to a car chase set to Wham!’s Last Christmas—are expertly executed, adding adrenaline-pumping moments to the tense plot. Yet, Carry-On leans more into psychological thrills than outright spectacle, with its suspenseful airport setting mined for maximum stress and intrigue.
The witty, fast-paced script by TJ Fixman enhances the film’s appeal, keeping viewers guessing as the story twists and turns toward its explosive conclusion. Comparisons to Die Hard 2 are inevitable, but Carry-On establishes its own identity as a modern thriller, albeit one that invites debates about its status as a Christmas movie.
A New Holiday Favorite?
Amid a sea of holiday content, Carry-On has proven to be a standout success, blending festive charm with edge-of-your-seat thrills. While it may not be your traditional Christmas movie, its gripping storyline, standout performances, and festive backdrop make it a must-watch for both action fans and those looking for something unconventional this holiday season.
As Netflix continues to experiment with diverse genres, Carry-On is a testament to its ability to produce original films that resonate with audiences. Whether it becomes a holiday classic or not, one thing is clear: Carry-On has secured its place as the unexpected star atop Netflix’s Christmas tree this year.
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