New 'Carry-On' thriller might confuse some audiences

There could be a couple of reasons why the new Netflix thriller Carry-On might confuse audiences. At some point, it is likely to invoke the old Die Hard dilemma over whether it’s a Christmas movie or not. That could leave some heads spinning even before you get to the exciting action in this newly released film. It’s set on Christmas Eve in an Airport, but that's still not close enough to count for me anyway. Die Hard has more Christmas content and qualifies though. 

Over in the UK, the confusion comes from a different perspective. Viewers there may have seen the title and be expecting something completely different instead. There was a long-running series of Carry On movies there from the 1960s featuring some bawdy humor, busty maidens or matrons, and a load of puns and innuendos.

The series had films set in all sorts of locations, establishments, and periods including the likes of Carry On Cowboy, Carry On Doctor, and Carry On Cleo, so one based in an Airport wouldn't have been amiss. 

There was a familiar core cast for those comedy movies and it’s an entirely different one for this 2024 release. Of course it is, there’s no connection between them, and most of the UK Carry On actors have passed on now. Not to mention a storyline in this Carry-On that's way too serious and hasn't got space for an “Oooh Matron!” line anywhere, unlike those UK films.  

Carry-On Netflix thriller gets the must-watch vote

There is, though, a Brit right at the top of the cast list for Carry-On. Welsh actor Taron Egerton plays Ethan Kopek, a TSA officer who gets blackmailed in a huge terror plot at the Airport. Egerton is backed strongly by American actors Sofia Carson, Danielle Deadwyler, and Jason Bateman. The film has many Die Hard style touches and moments, with Bateman’s sardonic style as a mysterious traveler reminiscent at times of Hans Gruber via Alan Rickman.

For Egerton, you need to think more of his role in the Kingsman movies than as Elton John in Rocket Man or as Olympian Ski Jumper Eddie Edwards in Eddie the Eagle. He brings that fresh, slightly cocky manner, but in a matey way, to the tense thriller, and contrasts well with Bateman.

Overall the film is a great watch. It may not be a true seasonal movie packed with Santa and elves for a family watch, but it is a decent, uncomplicated drama with an edge. For a night in and a break from the Christmas overload, it’s a must-watch full, of tension and not just a carry on

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