PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Flight Risk is hands down one of the most unexpected surprises of the year when it comes to action thrillers. Directed by Mel Gibson and starring Mark Wahlberg, it reunites the two after Father Stu, but this time they dive headfirst into a high-stakes, claustrophobic thrill ride that’s both intense and ridiculously fun. It might not be high art, but it’s the kind of movie that grabs you from the start and doesn’t let go—and honestly, sometimes that’s exactly what you want.
Mark Wahlberg is in full villain mode here, and it’s probably his best bad-guy performance since Fear. He’s unpredictable, menacing, and clearly having a blast playing against type. If you’re used to Wahlberg as the gruff hero or the lovable everyman, seeing him go dark again is a treat. There’s an edge to his character that adds real tension to every scene, especially in such a tight, confined space.
This also marks Mel Gibson’s first time directing since Hacksaw Ridge, and while this movie is on a much smaller scale, he brings the same intensity to the table. The whole film basically takes place on a private plane with just three main characters, and Gibson makes the most of that tight setting. He builds suspense and keeps the energy high, even without big explosions or elaborate chase scenes.
Topher Grace is a bit of a surprise standout here. He’s not the first name you think of when it comes to thrillers, but he more than holds his own. He brings a nervous energy and depth that play really well off Wahlberg’s intensity. Michelle Dockery is great too—tough, smart, and completely believable in her role. The chemistry and tension between the three actors really carry the movie.
The pacing is one of the movie’s biggest strengths. It’s a brisk 90 minutes and doesn’t waste a second. From the moment the plane takes off, the story hits the ground running and never slows down. There’s nonstop tension, a few solid twists, and enough action to keep you glued to the screen. You can tell the filmmakers knew exactly what kind of movie they wanted to make—and they nailed it.
What really works is the simplicity. It doesn’t try to be more than it is. It’s not trying to be a deep psychological thriller or a massive blockbuster—it’s just a tight, well-executed suspense film. And that’s what makes it so enjoyable. It’s the kind of movie that’s perfect for a night when you just want to be entertained without overthinking anything.
In the end, Flight Risk delivers exactly what the title promises—a wild, unpredictable ride. It’s not going to win a bunch of awards, but it absolutely delivers on thrills. With Wahlberg in top form, Gibson back behind the camera, and a surprisingly strong supporting cast, this is one flight worth taking.
The 4K UHD is an unbelievable treatment to have in your collection. The sound quality of the Dolby Atmos track resonates well enough to blow you away. The visual aspect of the disc is also very impressive.
