REVIEW: Carry-On (2024 Film) - Starring Taron Egerton

Review by Jon Donnis

Carry-On," released on Netflix on December 13, 2024, is an exhilarating action thriller that knows exactly what it wants to be. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and written by T.J. Fixman, the film hooks viewers from the start with a gripping, high-stakes premise set in the bustling chaos of Los Angeles International Airport on Christmas Eve.

The story follows Ethan Kopek, a TSA officer played with intensity and authenticity by Taron Egerton. Ethan, who has struggled with personal failures and low ambition, finds himself thrust into a life-or-death situation when a mysterious mercenary called the Traveler, played by Jason Bateman, forces him to make an impossible choice. Egerton's performance captures Ethan's desperation and determination, making him a compelling protagonist whose journey feels grounded even as the plot becomes increasingly tense.

Jason Bateman shines as the Traveler, bringing a chilling blend of charm and menace to his role. His dynamic with Egerton adds a layer of psychological tension that keeps the audience guessing. Sofia Carson, as Ethan's pregnant girlfriend Nora, brings warmth and emotional stakes to the story, while Danielle Deadwyler, as the determined LAPD detective Elena Cole, adds a sharp and resourceful presence. Tonatiuh delivers a sympathetic performance as Mateo Flores, a man caught in a web of coercion, and Theo Rossi's Watcher is suitably sinister, keeping the threat level high throughout.

The film's pacing is relentless, expertly crafted to maintain suspense from start to finish. Collet-Serra makes excellent use of the airport setting, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere where every corner holds potential danger. The action sequences are polished and thrilling, with a particularly intense climax aboard a plane that keeps viewers on edge. The film's direction ensures that even in its quieter moments, the tension never truly lets up.

Admittedly, the plot requires some suspension of disbelief. There are moments when events feel a little too convenient or logic takes a backseat to adrenaline-fuelled action. However, these moments don't detract from the overall experience. The film leans into its identity as a fast-paced, crowd-pleasing thriller and never loses sight of its primary goal: to entertain.

"Carry-On" benefits from its simplicity. The straightforward story allows the focus to remain on the characters and their high-pressure decisions. The script balances sharp dialogue with moments of emotional resonance, giving the actors room to elevate the material. While comparisons to "Die Hard" are inevitable, this film carves out its own space as a solid holiday thriller.

It is not without its flaws. Some twists push the limits of believability, and there are points where you might roll your eyes at the sheer implausibility of it all. That said, the film doesn't ask you to take it too seriously. It is designed to be a gripping ride, and it succeeds in delivering just that.

In the end, "Carry-On" is an engaging, fast-moving thriller that makes for an entertaining watch during the festive season. While it may not be a classic, it more than holds its own as a fun and well-crafted action film. With strong performances, taut direction, and a story that keeps you hooked, it is an enjoyable addition to Netflix's line-up. For fans of edge-of-your-seat action, this one is well worth a watch. A solid 7 out of 10.

Out Now on Netflix.

REVIEW: Kraven the Hunter (2024 Film) Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson

Review by Jon Donnis

Kraven the Hunter, directed by J. C. Chandor, is the latest addition to Sony's Spider-Man Universe, bringing one of Marvel's most enigmatic villains to the screen. Aaron Taylor-Johnson stars as Sergei Kravinoff, a hunter-turned-vigilante grappling with his fractured family and an animalistic transformation. The film attempts to walk a fine line between a faithful adaptation of the comics and a self-contained story but stumbles in its execution.

The plot centres on Sergei, whose childhood trauma and complicated relationship with his father, Nikolai (played with venomous charm by Russell Crowe), shape his journey. After an incident involving a lion leaves Sergei at death's door, he is saved by Calypso, a mysterious healer played by Ariana DeBose. Years later, Sergei, now "Kraven", takes on a vigilante role, targeting criminals while avoiding the shadow of his father's criminal empire. The narrative intertwines family betrayal, moral ambiguity, and action-packed set-pieces as Kraven confronts his estranged brother Dmitri (Fred Hechinger), the menacing Rhino (Alessandro Nivola), and the hypnotic Foreigner (Christopher Abbott).

Taylor-Johnson delivers a strong performance as Kraven, embodying the character's primal energy and moral conflict. His portrayal of Sergei as both a feral apex predator and a reluctant son brings a layered intensity to the role. Russell Crowe stands out as Nikolai, infusing the character with ruthless charisma and gravitas. Ariana DeBose as Calypso provides an emotional counterbalance to Kraven's turmoil, though her character feels underutilised, often reduced to a plot device rather than a fully fleshed-out figure.

The film's action sequences are fast-paced and visually striking, offering fans of comic book adaptations a decent dose of adrenaline. A buffalo stampede turned battle and Kraven's showdown with Rhino deliver some memorable moments. However, the visual effects, while serviceable in some scenes, suffer from a lack of polish, undermining the impact of pivotal confrontations. The rushed CGI work and choppy editing are particularly jarring in a few key moments, leaving an impression that the film's post-production was hurried.

Chandor's direction captures the grim, gritty atmosphere befitting Kraven's story, but the script's predictability limits its emotional depth. The dynamic between Sergei, Dmitri, and Nikolai, arguably the heart of the story, feels underdeveloped, with many revelations telegraphed long before they unfold. The Foreigner, though an intriguing adversary, receives minimal screen time, making his ultimate confrontation with Kraven feel anticlimactic.

For fans of the comics, Kraven the Hunter offers a reasonably faithful adaptation of the character. It honours Kraven's complex moral compass and primal intensity, which should please long-time enthusiasts. Unfortunately, the film's appeal may be limited for general audiences unfamiliar with the character, who may struggle to connect with its premise or invest in its world.

Sony's Spider-Man Universe has struggled to find its footing, and Kraven the Hunter does little to change the narrative. While it is a marked improvement over some of the studio's previous efforts, the film feels more like a stepping stone than a standalone triumph. Its disjointed storytelling and lack of a clear purpose prevent it from fully capitalising on the potential of its compelling lead.

Overall, Kraven the Hunter is a mixed bag. It offers flashes of brilliance, bolstered by committed performances and intense action, but is let down by uneven pacing and subpar visual effects. While not a failure, it lacks the cohesion and creativity needed to make a lasting impact. Fans of the source material will likely find it a satisfying, if flawed, adaptation, while casual viewers may find it forgettable. I'd give it a generous 7 out of 10.

Out Now in Cinemas and on Apple TV - https://apple.co/4fnALBs

LEGEND Kicks Off the New Year with Thrilling Premieres

By Jon Donnis

January is set to be an exciting month for fans of action, thrillers, and cult classics as LEGEND unveils a stellar lineup of eleven channel premieres. With a mix of iconic films, modern blockbusters, and gripping stories, viewers can look forward to a thrilling start to the New Year.

From Roy Ward Baker's LEGEND OF THE SEVEN GOLDEN VAMPIRES to Walter Hill's BULLET TO THE HEAD and the explosive British crime sequel WE STILL STEAL THE OLD WAY, the premieres promise something for every taste.

Fans of mercenary action can enjoy the classic THE WILD GEESE starring screen legends Richard Burton, Roger Moore, and Richard Harris. Meanwhile, sci-fi lovers will appreciate LOOPER, featuring Bruce Willis and Emily Blunt. Other highlights include the intense DEEPWATER HORIZON, the action-packed ESCAPE PLAN with Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger, and crime thrillers like EMPIRE STATE and WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE.

Adding to the excitement, cult TV series T.J. HOOKER, THE A-TEAM, and THE TWILIGHT ZONE continue their popular runs throughout the month.

Here's a full breakdown of what's in store, listed in transmission order:

Friday 3 January @ 23:05 – LEGEND OF THE SEVEN GOLDEN VAMPIRES (1974) Channel Premiere
Professor Van Helsing (Peter Cushing) teams up with seven kung fu-trained siblings to reclaim their village from a vampire horde and their undead army. This unique blend of horror and martial arts is co-directed by Roy Ward Baker and Hong Kong's Chang Cheh.

Saturday 4 January @ 21:00 – BULLET TO THE HEAD (2012) Channel Premiere
Sylvester Stallone stars as Jimmy Bobo, a New Orleans hit man who teams up with Detective Taylor Kwon (Sung Kang) to take down the killers of their partners. Also featuring Christian Slater.

Thursday 9 January @ 21:00 – THE WILD GEESE (1978) Channel Premiere
Aging mercenaries played by Richard Burton, Roger Moore, and Richard Harris take on one final mission to rescue a deposed African leader.

Saturday 11 January @ 21:00 – LOOPER (2012) Channel Premiere
In a future where the mob eliminates targets by sending them into the past, Joe (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is tasked with killing his future self (Bruce Willis), leading to a battle for survival.

Thursday 16 January @ 21:00 – DEADLY TARGET (2015) Channel Premiere
After returning home to find his brother murdered, Special Operative James Webster (Michael Jai White) goes on a ruthless mission for vengeance.

Saturday 18 January @ 21:00 – EMPIRE STATE (2013) Channel Premiere
Based on a true story, Dwayne Johnson stars as an NYPD detective investigating the biggest cash heist in US history. Co-stars Liam Hemsworth and Michael Angarano.

Sunday 19 January @ 21:00 – DEEPWATER HORIZON (2016) Channel Premiere
This biographical disaster drama, starring Mark Wahlberg, tells the harrowing story of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion and the heroes who risked everything.

Thursday 23 January @ 21:00 – WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE (1987) Channel Premiere
Rutger Hauer stars as bounty hunter Nick Randall, who is hired by the CIA to capture a dangerous terrorist responsible for a Los Angeles cinema bombing.

Friday 24 January @ 22:55 – THE HITMAN'S APPRENTICE (2012) Channel Premiere
Young Adam (Jack O'Connell) gets pulled into a dark world of violence and revenge when he agrees to drive his mum's gangster boyfriend Peter for a day. Co-stars Tim Roth.

Saturday 25 January @ 21:00 – ESCAPE PLAN (2013) Channel Premiere
Security expert Ray Breslin (Sylvester Stallone) is imprisoned in a high-tech facility he designed and must escape with the help of fellow inmate Emil (Arnold Schwarzenegger).

Thursday 30 January @ 22:55 – WE STILL STEAL THE OLD WAY (2016) Channel Premiere
The Archer Gang returns in this follow-up to We Still Kill the Old Way. Caught mid-heist and thrown into a notorious prison, they face off against their old enemy, Slick Vic Farrow (Billy Murray). Also stars Ian Ogilvy, Lysette Anthony, and Julian Glover.

For action-packed nights and cult TV favourites, LEGEND on Sky 148, Virgin 149, Freeview 41, and Freesat 137 has you covered this January.

PREVIEW: Day of the Fight: A Powerful Tale of Redemption and Resilience

By Jon Donnis

The gripping and emotionally charged Day of the Fight is set to captivate audiences when it premieres on the Icon Film Channel on 3 February, followed by a UK cinema release on 7 March. Featuring an exceptional ensemble cast and helmed by a debut director with a seasoned understanding of the art, the film promises to be a masterclass in storytelling, exploring themes of redemption, resilience and the enduring human spirit.

Michael C. Pitt in ring - Day of the Fight

At its heart is "Irish Mike" Flannigan, a former middleweight champion whose glory days are long behind him. The narrative unfolds on the day of his return to the ring, a monumental event following his release from prison. What begins as a tale of athletic ambition quickly evolves into a poignant exploration of Flannigan's inner battles. The fight at Madison Square Garden is merely the backdrop for a larger and far more personal confrontation. Flannigan must reckon with his past, navigate fractured relationships and seek forgiveness, offering viewers an unflinching look at the fragility and strength of the human condition.

Michael C. Pitt delivers a commanding lead performance as Flannigan, embodying the boxer's struggles and determination with raw intensity. Pitt's portrayal is both haunting and uplifting, anchoring the film's emotional core. The cast is rounded out by the formidable talents of Nicolette Robinson, John Magaro, Steve Buscemi, Ron Perlman and Joe Pesci. Each actor brings a distinct depth to their roles, adding layers of complexity and nuance to the story. Pesci, in particular, delivers a performance that will undoubtedly linger in the minds of viewers, his presence a reminder of the calibre of artistry that this film boasts.

Michael C. Pitt and Ron Perlman - Day of the Fight

Jack Huston's first foray into directing establishes him as a filmmaker with a clear and confident voice. Known for his acting roles in Boardwalk Empire and House of Gucci, Huston demonstrates a remarkable ability to craft a narrative that balances grit with tenderness. Drawing from his own experiences in front of the camera, he creates an intimate portrait of a man teetering on the edge of despair and redemption. The result is a cinematic experience that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant.

Produced by the visionary team behind The Irishman and Joker, Day of the Fight carries the weight of a legacy that champions bold and innovative storytelling. The film's sophisticated execution and rich emotional texture have already garnered critical acclaim. Described as "intense, riveting and emotionally honest" by the San Francisco Chronicle and "wildly sophisticated" by The Upcoming, the film has positioned itself as a must-see for 2024.

As Flannigan's journey unfolds, viewers are reminded of the universal themes of struggle and hope, resilience and renewal. The story is not just about boxing but about the fight within us all, the battles we face when confronting our own failures and striving for redemption. With its UK debut fast approaching, Day of the Fight is set to leave an indelible mark on audiences, heralding a new era of storytelling for both Jack Huston and its powerhouse cast.

Day of the Fight premieres exclusively on the Icon Film Channel from 3 February
Releasing in UK cinemas from 7 March

REVIEW: Venom: The Last Dance (2024 Film) - Starring Tom Hardy

Review by Jon Donnis

"Venom: The Last Dance" is a heartfelt and fitting conclusion to the trilogy that began with Venom in 2018. Written and directed by Kelly Marcel, this final chapter balances chaotic charm with some surprising emotional depth. Tom Hardy is, once again, brilliant as both Eddie Brock and Venom. It's incredible how he brings two such distinct characters to life in a way that feels effortless. Their back-and-forth bickering, alongside their moments of genuine connection, remains the beating heart of the series.

The story picks up with Eddie and Venom on the run, trying to clear Eddie's name after being framed for a murder. This kicks off a wild journey that takes them from a dive bar in Mexico to Area 51, with plenty of madness in between. At the same time, a terrifying new foe, the Xenophage, is hunting them. This creature adds real tension to the plot, while tying the story into a larger Marvel mythology involving Knull, the ancient symbiote creator. It feels like the stakes have never been higher.

What makes the film so enjoyable is how it blends high-stakes action with offbeat humour. The dynamic between Eddie and Venom is as hilarious as ever. Whether they're arguing over survival tactics or finding themselves in absurd situations, the comedy lands perfectly. There's even a scene where Venom has a moment of unexpected joy on the dance floor, which is both bizarre and oddly touching. It's these moments that keep the film grounded in its quirky tone, even as the story grows darker and more complex.

The supporting cast does a great job too. Chiwetel Ejiofor brings gravitas to the role of Rex Strickland, a determined government operative, while Juno Temple adds depth and vulnerability as Dr Teddy Paine, a scientist haunted by her past. Rhys Ifans is a delightful addition as Martin Moon, a hippie who provides comic relief and a surprising amount of heart.

The action scenes are impressive without being overwhelming. From a gripping mid-air battle to the intense final showdown at Area 51, the sequences are creative and exciting. Marcel keeps things visually dynamic while making sure the emotional stakes stay front and centre. At its core, the story isn't just about explosions and aliens, but about loyalty, sacrifice, and the unlikely friendship between Eddie and Venom.

That said, the film does have a few rough edges. The plot can feel a bit overstuffed at times, with so many moving parts that it occasionally trips over itself. Some of the lore around Knull and the Codex might also feel a little convoluted, especially for viewers who aren't familiar with the comics.

Even with these minor issues, Venom: The Last Dance is a fantastic ride. It's a bittersweet farewell to a series that has always defied expectations by being funny, strange, and surprisingly heartfelt. The ending is especially emotional, tying things up in a way that feels satisfying while leaving the door open for potential new stories in the wider Marvel universe.

Overall, the film is entertaining, funny, and packed with heart. Tom Hardy gives one of his best performances yet, and Kelly Marcel nails the mix of humour and action that makes this series so unique. I'd give it a solid 8.5 out of 10. It makes me want to revisit the first two films all over again, even though I'm sad this is the end of the road for Eddie and Venom.

Out Now in cinemas and on Digital

Apple TV - https://apple.co/41uSzqQ