Flight Risk (2025)

A Flawed but Engaging Thriller

Flight Risk (2025) is a film that has been met with mixed reviews, but it’s not as bad as some critics have suggested. Directed by Mel Gibson, the movie primarily unfolds within the confined space of an aging aircraft, a narrative choice reminiscent of tense, single-location thrillers like Panic Room and Phone Booth. While the film struggles with certain aspects of its execution, it delivers enough suspense and strong performances to make it a passable watch.

Strong Lead Performances & an Engaging Dynamic

Mark Wahlberg leads the film with his signature screen presence, portraying a mysterious and unsettling fugitive being transported by a determined US Marshal, played by Michelle Dockery. Wahlberg does a solid job in his role, exuding a calm yet menacing energy. Dockery, meanwhile, is a standout, convincingly embodying Agent Harris as a composed yet vulnerable professional forced into an extraordinary crisis.

Throughout the film, Dockery’s character maintains tense communication via satellite phone with both the US Marshal’s office and a pilot named Hasaan, who attempts to assist her remotely. These interactions provide additional layers of suspense and keep the tension from stagnating. The character of Hasaan, in particular, injects moments of levity and charm, offering a welcome contrast to the film’s otherwise grim tone.

A Predictable but Entertaining Plot

The plot of Flight Risk is built on a foundation of familiar tropes. A perilous situation, an unpredictable antagonist, and a race against time—all elements we’ve seen before. Unfortunately, the film rarely deviates from conventional storytelling. Most of its twists are telegraphed far in advance, diminishing their impact. If you’ve seen enough thrillers, you’ll likely predict the major reveals long before they occur.

Additionally, while the film’s setting—a failing aircraft stranded over the Alaskan wilderness—should evoke a strong sense of dread, the atmosphere never fully capitalizes on the inherent isolation and danger. The cinematography and sound design do an adequate job, but the film never quite immerses the audience in the sheer terror of the situation.

Casting Missteps & Tonal Issues

While Wahlberg and Dockery elevate the film, Topher Grace, who plays an informant, feels miscast. His comedic delivery undercuts the tension at crucial moments, making his character more of a distraction than an asset. His performance is inconsistent, oscillating between overly dramatic and awkwardly humorous, which disrupts the film’s serious tone.

Another questionable creative decision is Wahlberg’s appearance. The film gives his character a balding hairstyle, seemingly to enhance his creep factor. However, this effect is poorly executed—when his character’s toupee is removed, it becomes apparent that Wahlberg simply shaved the top of his head, leaving an oddly unnatural look. A more convincing makeup job could have made this transformation feel authentic rather than distracting.

Final Verdict

Flight Risk (2025) isn’t a groundbreaking thriller, but it isn’t a disaster either. The film benefits from strong performances by Wahlberg and Dockery, engaging interactions via radio communication, and steady pacing. However, its predictable plot, weak twists, and tonal inconsistencies hold it back from being truly memorable.

Rating: 6/10 – An enjoyable but flawed thriller that doesn’t quite reach its full potential.