Mel Gibson's 'Flight Risk'; A Turbulent Thriller in the Alaskan Skies
Mel Gibson’s latest directorial effort, Flight Risk, is a high-stakes thriller set almost entirely on a small plane flying through the Alaskan wilderness. The film stars Mark Wahlberg as a deceptive pilot, Michelle Dockery as a determined U.S. Marshal, and Topher Grace as a nervous mob informant. The story follows Marshal Madelyn Harris (Dockery) as she transports Winston (Grace), a key witness in a mob trial, via a rickety charter plane piloted by Wahlberg’s character, Daryl Booth. Mid-flight, it becomes clear that Daryl is not who he claims to be, leading to a tense battle for survival as Madelyn must outwit her captor and safely land the plane.
The film, written by Jared Rosenberg, has been described as a straightforward, low-budget thriller that leans into its simple premise. While some critics praise its commitment to the claustrophobic setting and the performances of its leads, others criticize its lack of originality and uneven execution. Wahlberg’s over-the-top portrayal of the villainous pilot has been noted as both a highlight and a point of contention, with some finding it cartoonish. Dockery’s stoic performance and Grace’s comedic timing provide balance, but the script’s reliance on repetitive action and uninspired dialogue has drawn mixed reactions.
Gibson, known for his visceral filmmaking style, delivers a film that is more restrained than his previous works like Braveheart and Hacksaw Ridge. While Flight Risk doesn’t reach the heights of his earlier epics, it offers a serviceable dose of tension and action, albeit with some questionable CGI and a predictable plot. The film’s marketing has notably avoided highlighting Gibson’s involvement, perhaps reflecting the polarizing nature of his public persona.
Overall, Flight Risk is a modest thriller that delivers on its promise of airborne suspense but falls short of being a standout entry in Gibson’s directorial career. It’s now in theaters, offering audiences a chance to decide if the ride is worth the turbulence.
Flight Risk Review - IGN
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