Flight Risk, directed by Mel Gibson and starring Mark Wahlberg, is a high-concept thriller that takes place almost entirely within the confines of a small plane. The film has its moments of excitement, and while it’s not going to place it’s self on a blockbuster list, it still manages to engage it’s audience.
The story follows U.S. Marshal Madelyn Harris (Michelle Dockery) as she escorts a reluctant government witness, Winston (Topher Grace), from rural Alaska to Anchorage. Their journey takes a dangerous turn when they discover that their pilot, Daryl Booth (Mark Wahlberg), is actually an assassin sent to eliminate Winston. The ensuing cat-and-mouse game between the passengers and the unhinged pilot forms the core of the film’s tension.
Mark Wahlberg delivers a performance that is entertaining, and a little different because in this action thriller he’s the bad guy. His portrayal of the deranged assassin is filled with manic energy and dark humor, providing some much-needed levity to the otherwise tense atmosphere. Michelle Dockery manages to hold this film together with a performance that’s engaging particularly in moments where she’s tasked with keeping the passengers alive.
Flight Risk might not make it’s mark as one of the years biggest action blockbusters, but it does have its moments of excitement, particularly during the more intense confrontations between the passengers and the pilot. These scenes are well-choreographed and manage to deliver some genuine thrills, and definitely kept me engaged. For fans of high-concept thrillers, it may be worth a watch, but don’t expect the ride to be completely smooth.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
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