I watched Red One and I liked it. 3.5/5
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The Christmas action-comedy Red One delivers a high-octane blend of holiday cheer and blockbuster spectacle, a unique twist on festive cinema that makes for an entertaining if slightly uneven ride. Directed by Jake Kasdan and starring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans, the film combines mythological lore, elaborate action sequences, and tongue-in-cheek humor into a larger-than-life adventure. While it doesn’t always stick the landing, Red One manages to charm with its ambition and star power, positioning itself as a potential franchise starter.
A Festive Adventure with High Stakes
Set in a world where the mythical and the modern collide, Red One follows Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), head of North Pole security, and Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans), a hacker turned reluctant hero, as they team up to rescue Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons) from the clutches of the sinister winter witch Grýla (Kiernan Shipka). As they race against time to save Christmas, the duo faces everything from deadly snowmen to magical imprisonment, all while grappling with their own personal baggage.
The premise is as outrageous as it sounds, but the film leans into its absurdity with gusto. The Mythological Oversight and Restoration Authority (M.O.R.A.), an agency dedicated to preserving the balance between myth and reality, adds an intriguing layer of world-building. It’s clear the filmmakers had fun crafting this universe, blending holiday whimsy with action-movie tropes to create something uniquely chaotic.
Star Power and Chemistry
At the heart of Red One is the chemistry between its leads. Johnson and Evans make for a dynamic pairing, with Johnson’s gruff but well-meaning Callum playing off Evans’ sarcastic and skeptical Jack. Their banter injects the film with much-needed humor, grounding the fantastical plot in relatable character dynamics.
Johnson is in his element as Callum, combining his trademark charisma with a more jaded, world-weary edge. Evans, meanwhile, embraces his role as the snarky outsider, delivering quippy one-liners with ease. The duo’s camaraderie grows naturally over the course of the film, culminating in a satisfying partnership that’s equal parts buddy-cop and holiday buddy comedy.
Kiernan Shipka is delightfully menacing as Grýla, balancing her villainous scheming with moments of dry humor. J.K. Simmons’ Santa is another highlight, bringing warmth and gravitas to the role while also getting his fair share of action scenes. The supporting cast, including Lucy Liu as M.O.R.A. director Zoe Harlow and Kristofer Hivju as the misunderstood Krampus, rounds out the ensemble with memorable performances.
Action-Packed Holiday Mayhem
One of Red One’s biggest strengths is its action. Kasdan, best known for the Jumanji films, delivers inventive set pieces that blend holiday iconography with blockbuster thrills. From a fight against enchanted snowmen to a high-stakes sleigh chase, the film keeps the energy high and the visuals dazzling.
However, the film’s ambition occasionally works against it. At 123 minutes, Red One feels overstuffed, with certain subplots—such as Jack’s relationship with his estranged son Dylan—receiving less attention than they deserve. The pacing can also be uneven, with slower character moments sometimes dragging amidst the frenetic action.
The film’s hefty $250 million budget is evident in its production design and special effects. The North Pole is a visual treat, blending cozy Christmas charm with high-tech sophistication. Grýla’s icy lair and the enchanted snow globes are equally impressive, showcasing the film’s commitment to bringing its fantastical world to life.
Humor and Heart
While Red One is primarily an action movie, it doesn’t shy away from humor. The script, penned by Chris Morgan, balances cheeky one-liners with over-the-top gags, keeping the tone light and self-aware. Jack’s skepticism about Santa’s existence and the absurdity of some situations provide ample comedic fodder.
Beneath the humor and spectacle, Red One also explores themes of redemption and belief. Jack’s journey from cynicism to wonder, driven by his growing bond with Callum and his reconciliation with Dylan, adds emotional weight to the narrative. Similarly, Callum’s disillusionment with humanity’s increasing “naughty” behavior is countered by moments that remind him—and the audience—of the magic of Christmas.
A Mixed Holiday Bag
Despite its strengths, Red One isn’t without its flaws. The plot can be overly convoluted, with multiple twists and mythological elements competing for attention. Some jokes don’t land, and the film occasionally veers into corny territory. Additionally, the behind-the-scenes controversies, including reports of production delays caused by Johnson’s tardiness, may color some viewers’ perceptions.
Box office performance has also been underwhelming, with the film struggling to recoup its massive budget. However, its strong audience approval ratings suggest it has resonated with viewers, particularly families and fans of its star-studded cast.
Final Verdict
Red One is a bold and entertaining addition to the holiday movie canon, blending action, comedy, and festive spirit into a uniquely chaotic package. While it doesn’t always hit the mark, its charm, humor, and heartfelt moments make it a worthwhile watch for the holiday season.
For those looking for a fun, action-packed alternative to traditional Christmas fare, Red One delivers plenty of thrills and laughs. It may not be a future classic, but it’s an enjoyable romp that captures the spirit of the season.