Fight or Flight

Fight or Flight is an unashamed genre mash-up that doesn't so much blend action and comedy as throw them into the overhead lockers and take off at full speed. Josh Hartnett leans into the absurdity with the same gusto Bruce Campbell brought to Evil Dead. All flailing limbs, deadpan one-liners, and a face that says, "I did not sign up for this." The film knows exactly what it is and, more importantly, what it isn't. It's not trying to be clever. It's trying to be fun, and it is.

There's a clear nod to Campbell's Ash in the way Hartnett navigates chaos. He somehow manages to be both the straight man and the punchline. At times, the film flirts with the ridiculousness of Snakes on a Plane. Just when you think it can't get more over-the-top, it throws in a set piece straight out of the John Wick playbook; if Wick were running on fumes and duct tape.

The violence is cartoonish. The humour lands more often than not. The pacing is tight enough to keep you buckled in. It's the kind of film that winks at the audience without smugness and invites you to enjoy the ride. You will.

It's a solid 7.5 out of 10. Not because it redefines the genre, but because it remembers what so many films forget. If you're going to be ridiculous, be really good at it.

Fight or Flight is a gleefully chaotic action-comedy that puts Josh Hartnett in the cockpit of a high-flying, bullet-riddled thrill ride. His chemistry with Charithra Chandran brings unexpected heart to this otherwise bombastic showdown aboard a plane teeming with assassins. James Madigan directs with flair, leaning into absurdity with chainsaw fights and explosive skirmishes. Though its plot twists are predictable and its themes undercooked, Fight or Flight excels as a stylish, over-the-top action flick that knows exactly what it is.

Die Hard on a plane with a little Bullet Train chaos thrown in. Josh Hartnett is clearly having the time of his life, and the action is relentless. Dumb? Absolutely. But it's a good kind of dumb.

Josh Hartnett rarely disappoints and this is no exception. Yes, it is a bit silly but it is a little funny, action packed and there was even a good bit of gore also which was a pleasant surprise. The only question that really ever matters is of course... Was it entertaining? And that is definitely a yes for Fight or Flight. I give this a solid 7.5 out of 10. It is one of those movies you just have to shut your brain off for. Do that and sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!

Acting was fine, effects good, sound good, not really much to complain about. It's not going to win any awards but it will definitely entertain!

Fight or Flight is a perfect example of a fun movie. So, what makes a fun action flick? Let's explore.

First, you have to have good pacing. Things need to move, plot points need to happen frequently, slow parts/character moments need to be relatively short. This movie succeeds.

Second, the action needs to be on the crazy side, a bit over-the-top. No holding back, no cowardly PG-13 rating. Blood and gore are a plus. And a cherry on top would be if the action is filmed clearly, easy for the viewer to see. This movie succeeds.

Third, add some humor, preferably organic to the premise as opposed to inserting random jokes. If the tone of the movie is bloody, then use the bloodiness for humor. Make me laugh at the extent of the carnage. This movie succeeds.

Josh Hartnett does a great job in this role, especially with the humor. I had an awesome time with this movie and would watch it again.

(1 viewing, 5/5/2025)

This film was better than I expected. Is it a masterpiece, definitely not, is it the worst thing I've ever seen definitely not.

It's very 90s esq cheesy action film based around a group of assasins trying to kill someone on a plane while a drunk former secret service operative tries to save her. Do not watch this film expecting to see an Oscar worthy great.

However, Josh Hartnett is really good and carries the film well. It's the first thing I've seen Charithra Chandran in and thought she was really good to. The action is over the top and stupid but at the same time entertaining.

The worst thing about the movie is the ending where the film is left unfinished and set up for a sequel, which is a huge pet hate of mine.