Red One, directed by Jake Kasdan, was anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to the typical Christmas movie genre dominated by CGI effects and soulless storylines. However, the movie takes a different route by blending elements of high-speed car chases and CGI fight scenes reminiscent of the Fast and Furious franchise. The film’s writer, Chris Morgan, known for his work in the Fast and Furious series, infuses Red One with action-packed sequences and themes of family, albeit in a slightly heavy-handed manner.
The plot revolves around Callum Drift, played by Dwayne Johnson, who is Santa Claus’s head of security looking to retire after centuries on the job. When Santa is kidnapped by Gryla, a shape-shifting witch portrayed by Kiernan Shipka, Cal teams up with Jack, played by Chris Evans, to rescue Santa and save Christmas. Jack, an amoral tracker with a troubled past, reluctantly joins forces with Cal, leading to an unlikely partnership filled with banter and unexpected camaraderie.
Despite its chaotic North Pole setting and over-the-top action, Red One manages to sprinkle moments of genuine emotion and humor throughout the narrative. J.K. Simmons delivers a memorable performance as Santa Claus, bringing a sense of warmth and sincerity to the character. Additionally, Bonnie Hunt’s portrayal of Santa’s wife and Nick Kroll’s role as a middleman add depth to the story, while Kristofer Hivju’s portrayal of Santa’s estranged brother Krampus introduces a compelling dynamic to the plot.
While Red One may not be a traditional Christmas movie, it offers a unique blend of action, comedy, and heartwarming moments that make it an entertaining watch for the holiday season. Despite its lengthy runtime and occasional pacing issues, the film succeeds in delivering an adrenaline-fueled adventure with a touch of Christmas magic. Whether you’re a fan of action movies or holiday classics, Red One offers a refreshing twist on the typical Christmas film formula that is sure to keep audiences entertained.
