Netflix’s Carry-On, directed by Kasper Barfoed, is an intense and fast-paced thriller that thrives on suspense.
While it leans heavily on familiar tropes, the film offers enough tension, action, and nail-biting scenarios to make for a thrilling watch.
The Premise
Taron Egerton stars as Ethan, a TSA agent whose Christmas Eve turns into a nightmare when a mysterious traveler blackmails him into smuggling a dangerous package onto a flight.
Performance and Characters
Egerton’s performance is the glue holding the story together. He starts as a cheerful officer but gradually unravels under pressure, evolving into a jittery, desperate man trying to do the right thing under impossible circumstances.
He’s completely believable, blending charm, panic, and determination in a way that makes you root for him.
Danielle Deadwyler is equally strong as an LAPD detective. Tough, sharp, and no-nonsense, her character adds grit and intelligence to the story.
While her role is limited, she makes every scene count, refusing to accept surface answers as she pieces together the bigger picture.
The villains, on the other hand, remain mostly undefined—a choice that works surprisingly well. By keeping them mysterious and ruthless, the story builds a sense of paranoia where anyone could be involved.
The supporting cast, including Logan Marshall-Green, Theo Rossi, Dean Norris, and Sophia Carson, add depth without stealing focus from Egerton’s central struggle.
Each character has a role to play, contributing to the story without unnecessary detours.
What I Liked About the Movie
For action movies like this to work, you have to care about the characters and I did care!
Carry-On keeps its story tightly focused, wasting no time on unnecessary exposition. Every scene pushes the plot forward, creating a steady build-up of tension and anxiety.
One standout moment is a close-quarters fight sequence, filmed in a continuous take. The camerawork is exceptional, pulling the audience into the action and creating a claustrophobic experience. It’s violent, raw, and perfectly staged without feeling over-the-top.
Most of the film’s action relies on chases and escalating scenarios rather than prolonged fights, which keeps the story grounded and believable.
One of the film’s strengths is its balance of tension and action.
While the stakes are high and the villains are ruthless, the film avoids turning into an all-out action fest.
Instead, it maintains a grounded tone, focusing on Ethan’s growing desperation as he tries to outwit his blackmailer while navigating the chaos of LAX on Christmas Eve.
The bustling airport setting adds another layer of stress, with the constant threat of a stampede or widespread panic lurking just beneath the surface.
What I Didn’t Like About the Movie
Despite the strong pacing, Carry-On isn’t without flaws.
Several plot conveniences require viewers to suspend disbelief—especially when it comes to how much Ethan gets away with before anyone suspects him.
You’d expect his increasingly erratic behavior to raise red flags among co-workers, yet it rarely does.
Additionally, the conclusion feels predictable, with the story playing it safe in its final moments.
Would I Recommend the Movie?
Yes, I would recommend this movie.
Carry-On delivers exactly what it promises: a tense, anxiety-driven thriller anchored by a captivating performance from Taron Egerton.
While it doesn’t break new ground and relies on some familiar plot devices, the pacing, action sequences, and suspense keep it entertaining from start to finish.
It’s the kind of film that keeps you hooked for two hours and leaves you satisfied.
How Would I Rate This Movie?
I would rate it 3.5 out of 5.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨☆ (3.5/5)
Be the first to comment