Review: Carry-On is a solid action thriller that blends the festive setting and tense dynamics of Die Hard (1988) with the psychological manipulation of Red Eye (2005) and the confined intensity of Phone Booth (2002). Written by T.J. Fixman, the film presents an engaging premise but occasionally struggles to fully explore its claustrophobic potential.

The story centres on TSA agent Ethan (Taron Egerton), who is stuck in a stagnant career at LAX airport. With his girlfriend Nora (Sofia Carson) expecting a child, Ethan feels immense pressure to prove himself. Eager to impress, he takes on the monitoring position at the carry-on security scanner for the first time on a hectic Christmas Eve. This decision plunges him into a nightmare when he receives an earpiece from a mysterious man (Jason Bateman), who instructs him to let a specific passenger’s luggage pass through—no matter the dangerous contents detected by the X-ray. If Ethan refuses, Nora’s life is at risk.

The film’s setup is fantastic, and much of it pays off. Taron Egerton is a likeable lead, skillfully portraying Ethan’s mounting desperation and determination. Viewers empathize with his character’s increasingly claustrophobic situation. Jason Bateman excels as the no-nonsense antagonist, using his commanding and slick voice to great effect, creating a character who feels menacing yet practical in his goals.

While Egerton and Bateman anchor the film, the supporting cast receives thoughtful development, which is a double-edged sword. Characters like Special Agent Elena Cole (Danielle Deadwyler), tasked with unravelling the plot, add depth but occasionally pull focus away from the tension of Ethan’s predicament. A tighter narrative that stayed entirely within the airport might have amplified the “chamber piece” intensity of the story.

Director Jaume Collet-Serra (Orphan, The Shallows) enhances the film with his signature visual flair and taut pacing. The Christmas Eve backdrop injects a layer of festive irony, heightening the stakes and adding to the film’s atmosphere.

Despite its minor detours, Carry-On is a well-crafted holiday thriller that strikes a balance between tension, action, and emotional stakes. While it nods to classics like Die Hard, it carves out its own identity, delivering a brisk and engaging ride perfect for the season.

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