DLochner

The movie aims for high-octane thrills but lands closer to nostalgia than innovation. The film smartly uses the cramped airplane setting to build tension, with Mark Wahlberg delivering a strong performance as a menacing contract killer posing as a pilot.

While the tight spaces and character dynamics shine, the predictable script by Jared Rosenberg drags the film down. Michelle Dockery and Topher Grace add depth to the cast but can't fully lift the story.

In the end, "Flight Risk" offers decent action and a throwback vibe but struggles to match the impact of Gibson's past hits like "Braveheart" or "Apocalypto."

Despite its gritty portrayal and commendable performances, notably by Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin, the series struggles with narrative originality. The storyline of a mother and son traversing treacherous lands to reunite with family echoes themes seen in films like "The Missing" (2003) and series such as "1883" (2021). Moreover, the depiction of survival against a harsh wilderness bears a striking resemblance to "The Revenant," unsurprising given both were penned by Mark L. Smith. While the Western genre is currently experiencing a resurgence, "American Primeval" doesn't offer much that hasn't been explored elsewhere. For those seeking fresh perspectives, alternatives like Kevin Costner's "Horizon" might prove more compelling. In essence, the series is watchable but treads well-worn paths.

Sean Baker delivers a film that is both incredibly profound and refreshingly effortless. It feels raw, energetic, and full of life, carried by outstanding performances and a sense of authenticity that is hard to find in modern cinema. The film never drags-every scene feels alive, always surprising, never predictable. It doesn't rely on a traditional hero's journey, yet it captivates from start to finish. There's a certain magic in how the story unfolds, even if you're not always sure where it's going. The direction is sharp but never heavy-handed, the characters feel real, and the whole experience lingers long after the credits roll. This is the kind of film that reminds you why cinema can be so powerful-engaging, entertaining, and deeply resonant all at once.