Carry-On (2024)

For anyone who's ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at an airport, Carry-On (2024) delivers an intense, pulse-pounding glimpse into the world of airport security while transforming an ordinary TSA checkpoint into the stage for an extraordinary thriller.

Suspense at LAX: A Riveting Thriller at Security Checkpoint

The film follows Ethan Kopek (Taron Egerton), a newly assigned TSA agent at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) whose routine first day takes an unexpected turn. When a mysterious voice (Jason Bateman) begins issuing deadly commands through an earpiece, Kopek finds himself caught in a terrifying game of cat and mouse that puts thousands of lives at stake.

What sets Carry-On apart is its unique setting within one of America's busiest airports. The film offers unprecedented access to rarely-seen areas like the Baggage Handling System (BHS), where viewers finally get answers to the age-old question: what really happens to our luggage after check-in?

Casting Against Type: A New Side of Bateman

Jason Bateman delivers a surprising dramatic turn, stepping away from his typical sardonic comedy roles to portray a ruthless antagonist. His commanding voice performance creates a menacing presence that looms over every scene, proving his versatility as an actor.

When Routine Security Becomes a Deadly Game

Real Airport Drama, Real Suspense

The film's commitment to replicating the portrayal of daily airport operations, especially the TSA, is a worthy engagement. From frustrated passengers removing their shoes at security checkpoint to the complex choreography of baggage handling, Carry-On remarkably captures the controlled chaos of airport life and shows us a different perspective that only people behind the desk can know.

Masterful Filming in an Airport Setting

With impressive skill, the filmmakers tackle the challenge of shooting in what would appear to be a crowded airport setting. The constant flow of extras playing irritated travelers adds both comic relief and authenticity while maintaining the mounting tension of Kopek's situation.

Character Growth Under Pressure

What begins as a story about a reluctant, soon-to-be father evolves into a compelling character study. We watch Kopek transform from an uncertain rookie into a quick-thinking survivor as he attempts to outsmart his unseen tormentor. His desperate attempts to signal for help – through hidden notes, emergency calls, and coded messages – keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The antagonist's sophisticated operation involves a surveillance van outside the airport and a hidden hostage, creating a web of control that feels both terrifying and eerily plausible in our connected age. While some moments require suspension of disbelief, the film's internal logic remains consistent enough to maintain its grip on viewers.

Modern Threats in a Connected World

Cleared for Landing: Final Thoughts

As the story escalates from personal survival to preventing a mass casualty event, Carry-On raises the stakes while keeping the human element front and center. Kopek's journey from protecting himself and his pregnant girlfriend to potentially saving thousands of lives showcases the film's ability to balance intimate character development with larger-scale tension.

Carry-On (2024) succeeds as both a character-driven thriller and a unique glimpse into the complex world of airport security. While some plot points stretch credibility, the film's authentic setting, strong performances, and relentless pacing make it a compelling watch for anyone who's ever wondered about the people keeping our airports safe.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or have never set foot in an airport, this taut thriller offers a fresh perspective on a familiar setting while delivering the kind of edge-of-your-seat entertainment that makes it worth the price of admission.

One Man's Choice, Thousands of Lives