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Writer's pictureFaiz Faisal

Movie Review: Red One



If you're a fan of holiday movies that bring a wild twist to Christmas traditions, Red One might just be the film for you. Directed by Jake Kasdan and featuring a powerhouse cast including Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, Lucy Liu, and Kiernan Shipka, this action-adventure comedy reimagines the Christmas spirit with big laughs, some chaotic action, and a heartwarming core.


A Fresh Take on Holiday Action

After watching Violent Night, I knew I’d love Red One—and I wasn't disappointed. This sub-genre of holiday films that blend action and comedy is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. With a storyline that involves the kidnapping of Santa Claus and a bounty hunter teaming up with North Pole security to save him, the film puts a fun spin on a Christmas rescue mission that’s packed with both laughs and thrills.


Standout Cast and Chemistry

The cast truly delivered. Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans shine as a mismatched duo with fantastic chemistry; their dynamic is a perfect balance, with Dwayne playing the laid-back leader and Chris as the chatty, high-energy bounty hunter. They complement each other’s characters in a way that feels natural and funny. Lucy Liu and Kiernan Shipka are absolute standouts as well—both play tough, badass characters that bring an empowering energy to the screen.


Story and Pacing

The storyline is entertaining and unique, though I found the pace a bit slow at times. With several pep talks and reflective moments about family and self-discovery, the film does lean into classic holiday themes. While these scenes add to the heart of the movie, they did slow down the action for me in a few spots. But overall, the narrative held my interest, blending holiday warmth with action in a way that works.


Action and Humor

One of the best parts? The action-packed showdown where Dwayne and Chris take on a snowman at the beach. It's intense, well-choreographed, and hilarious all at once—definitely the most memorable scene in the movie for me. The humor lands well too, especially if you catch the Christmas song references scattered throughout. Dwayne quoting song lyrics mid-battle made for some great laughs and added to the holiday vibe.


Holiday Visuals with a Dash of Marvel-Style Magic

The movie beautifully captures the holiday spirit with its visuals. I loved seeing Santa’s magical gift delivery in action—it was enchanting and even felt a bit Marvel-inspired, giving it a larger-than-life quality. The effects and set design were spot-on, making it easy to get lost in the festive atmosphere.


Final Verdict

Red One is a fun, family-friendly holiday film that combines action, humor, and heart. It’s the kind of movie that you’ll enjoy watching with loved ones, adding a little extra excitement to the holiday season. For me, it’s an 8/10—a fresh, entertaining take on Christmas that’s perfect for a cozy movie night.

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