Exploring ‘Flight Risk’: Unpacking the Twists and Turns of the Movie That Keeps You Guessing!

At first, I wasn’t very excited to see “Flight Risk.” The trailers didn’t grab my attention. It looked like a mashup of “Die Hard” but set in an Alaskan plane, starring Mark Wahlberg, who I think hasn’t impressed me since “Pain & Gain.” Plus, Mel Gibson directing didn’t help my enthusiasm. But I ended up going because I have a crush on the girl at the ticket counter. Unfortunately, she wasn’t there that day, which left me stuck with this film.

The movie starts with a scene that sets the tone poorly. We see a green-screened motel and a fake-looking CGI moose. It felt disheartening, like I was watching a movie created without much care. I expected to dislike the film even more after that.

However, I have to admit there were some redeeming qualities. Wahlberg gives a strong performance as Daryl, a character that marks his first venture as a villain. This is a fresh take for him since he usually plays the good guy. Even my mom noticed the change. She said, “It’s nice to see him play a new character.”

When I joked about him being bald in this role, she clarified, “Yes, but also someone who’s a little mean.” And she was right. It was refreshing to see him embrace this darker side. His character can be creepy at times, sliding through his dialogue, but then he throws out a witty one-liner that catches you off guard.

Wahlberg has always had a knack for comedy, making his character feel real and relatable. Still, I felt he didn’t push his performance far enough. There were moments where he could have shown more range and depth, but he didn’t fully seize those opportunities.

Gibson adds some interesting elements to the story. For instance, Topher Grace’s character, an accountant in witness protection, raises questions about loyalty. There’s even a light romance between a Federal Air Marshal and an air traffic controller that provides a bit of fun. Yet, the script struggles to keep up with Gibson’s direction.

The pacing of the film feels off. It’s set as a slow burn, but many twists are predictable. We already know from the trailer that Wahlberg’s character is a fake pilot, which takes away from the tension. The film tries to create a sense of claustrophobia and isolation, but it doesn’t succeed in making us feel the urgency as the plane takes a nosedive.

While Gibson can bring out strong performances from actors, I wonder if another director could have made “Flight Risk” an action-packed hit instead of an oddly paced movie. There were great moments, but they often felt overshadowed by missed opportunities.

In the end, I’d give “Flight Risk” a 6.4 out of 10. It has its highs and lows, but it ultimately leaves you wanting more.

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