Mel Gibson’s ‘Flight Risk’ sets out to be a tense, high-stakes thriller, confining its characters to the claustrophobic interior of a small plane as danger lurks in every corner.
While the film delivers moments of genuine suspense and features strong performances—especially from Mark Wahlberg—it ultimately struggles with uneven storytelling and logic-defying plot devices that keep it from fully taking off.
The film follows US Marshal Madelyn Harris (Michelle Dockery) and mob accountant-turned-informant Winston (Topher Grace) as they are transported on a charter flight across the Alaskan wilderness. Unbeknownst to them, their pilot, Daryl Booth (Mark Wahlberg), is actually a sadistic hitman with a sinister agenda. The majority of the action takes place in the cramped interior of a Cessna, with the trio engaged in a deadly game of survival.
Standout Performances. Mark Wahlberg steals the show as the unhinged Daryl, bringing a chilling intensity to his role. His sadistic glee and psychotic tendencies elevate the film’s tension, making him a compelling antagonist. Wahlberg’s ability to blend charm with menace ensures that his character keeps viewers on edge throughout the runtime.
Michelle Dockery delivers a solid performance as Madelyn, although her character’s decisions often strain credibility. Meanwhile, Topher Grace provides a mix of humor and vulnerability as Winston, offering a nice contrast to Wahlberg’s relentless aggression.
Suspense and Visuals. Director Mel Gibson effectively uses the film’s confined setting to create a sense of claustrophobia and tension. The contrast between the serene, snow-covered Alaskan (filmed in Canada) wilderness and the chaos inside the plane adds a visually striking element to the film. Gibson’s mastery of staging action and violence is evident in several gripping sequences, particularly during intense scuffles and life-or-death moments.
Plot. Despite its strengths, ‘Flight Risk’ suffers from significant narrative issues. The script leans heavily on contrived scenarios, such as characters carelessly leaving weapons and tools unattended, allowing the villain to repeatedly regain the upper hand. These moments detract from the suspense, making the characters appear incompetent rather than resourceful.
Madelyn’s character, in particular, is undermined by poor decision-making, from failing to secure a subdued Daryl to making impulsive, unfounded accusations. These choices often feel forced, serving the plot’s need for tension rather than reflecting realistic behavior.
The pacing also falters during slower stretches, particularly when Daryl is incapacitated, leaving the film to rely on dialogue-heavy scenes that struggle to maintain momentum.
LionhearTV‘s Verdict. ‘Flight Risk’ has its moments of brilliance, thanks to Wahlberg’s committed performance, Gibson’s directorial finesse, and a few genuinely suspenseful sequences. However, its reliance on clumsy plot devices and character inconsistencies prevents it from reaching its full potential.
While it’s not a cinematic masterpiece, ‘Flight Risk’ is an entertaining watch for fans of confined-space thrillers. Just be prepared to suspend disbelief and forgive some glaring narrative missteps.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
