Why ‘Flight Risk’ Takes a Tumble: An In-Depth Review | InSession Film

Director: Mel Gibson
Writer: Jared Rosenberg
Stars: Michelle Dockery, Mark Wahlberg, Topher Grace

Synopsis: A pilot is tasked with flying an Air Marshal and a fugitive to trial. As they navigate the Alaskan wilderness, tensions rise, and trust is put to the test when secrets unfold onboard.

Every film starts with a script, and that’s where the magic begins. It’s the foundation that sparks excitement for producers and captures the imagination of viewers. So, why would talented people choose to work on something like Flight Risk?

Unfortunately, Flight Risk suffers from a poorly crafted script. While the basic plot and premise are interesting, the details are confusing. The characters’ motivations often make no sense, and the dialogue feels stale. It’s as if the lines were pulled from a generic writing guide. Some moments are particularly cringe-worthy, including the character Daryl (played by Mark Wahlberg), whose aggressive behavior is troubling and outdated.

Mel Gibson’s name doesn’t prominently feature in marketing materials for Flight Risk. Instead, the focus is on his accolades, perhaps hoping to overshadow past controversies. Despite his earlier struggles, Gibson’s direction brings some tension and excitement to the film. He knows how to create thrilling scenes, even within the tight confines of a small airplane.

When it comes to acting, the performances vary. Topher Grace’s character feels predictable, while Michelle Dockery seems uncomfortable in her role. Mark Wahlberg’s portrayal of Daryl stands out, but not in a good way. His over-the-top acting often overshadows his co-stars. It feels like he’s trying so hard that the performance becomes jarring rather than engaging.

Visually, Flight Risk appears to be on a tight budget, evident in the lackluster CGI. Unlike other indie films that manage to shine despite limited resources, this one struggles with a script that feels rushed. Calling it a formulaic action film would be generous; it misses the mark in many ways.

Grade: D