Review by Jon Donnis
Red One is a bold and exuberant addition to the collection of Christmas films, blending holiday cheer with high-octane action in a way that feels fresh and entertaining. Directed by Jake Kasdan, the film is both a love letter to traditional Christmas stories and an ambitious attempt to expand the genre into something larger and more adventurous. While it isn't perfect, it is the sort of movie that is bound to leave you smiling.
The plot follows Callum Drift, played by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, the grizzled head of North Pole security, and Jack O'Malley, portrayed by Chris Evans, a snarky hacker with a heart of gold. Together, they set off on a mission to rescue Santa Claus, played wonderfully by J. K. Simmons. The premise is as over-the-top as it sounds, but that is precisely what makes Red One work. Jake Kasdan embraces the absurdity, delivering a story packed with festive action sequences, magical gadgets, and mythological intrigue. From the icy corridors of the North Pole to Grýla's sinister lair, the settings are vivid, imaginative, and brimming with holiday spirit.
The cast is one of the film's strongest points. The Rock brings his usual charm and physical presence to Callum, striking a balance between the character's tough exterior and his softer, more heartfelt side. Evans is a revelation in his role, delivering sharp one-liners with ease while bringing emotional depth to scenes with his estranged son Dylan. J. K. Simmons' Santa Claus is warm and charismatic, offering just the right mix of authority and kindness. Kiernan Shipka's Grýla makes for a chilling antagonist, adding a touch of dark fantasy to the otherwise light-hearted tone. Kristofer Hivju's Krampus is another highlight, delivering a surprising mix of humour, bitterness, and redemption.
One of the film's biggest strengths is its commitment to Christmas lore. By including characters like Krampus and Grýla, it steps beyond the usual holiday clichés and creates something that feels more universal. The blend of mythological fantasy and modern action works well, even if it sometimes relies too much on over-the-top CGI. The humour is hit-or-miss at times, but when it works, it adds to the film's overall charm.
Red One is not without its flaws. At two hours, the runtime feels a bit stretched, and some scenes drag on longer than they need to. A shorter runtime could have kept the pacing tighter and more engaging. The script, while ambitious, can feel overly complicated in places, occasionally losing focus under the weight of its many ideas. There is also a heavy reliance on visual effects and holiday gimmicks, which can feel like they are there to cover up some of the weaker moments in the story.
Despite these issues, Red One has a lot of heart. It captures the spirit of Christmas in a way that feels sincere, celebrating themes of redemption, family, and the magic of believing. While it may not be the most original Christmas movie ever made, it is thoroughly entertaining and perfect for audiences of all ages.
If you are looking for a break from the usual sentimental Christmas dramas, Red One offers something different. It is a wild, action-packed adventure that still leaves you with a warm and festive feeling by the end. It is fun, imaginative, and undeniably Christmassy. I would give it a solid 7.5 out of 10. It is a great choice for a family movie night or anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit with a bit of action and adventure.
Out Now in Cinemas.