A new holiday thriller on Netflix is catching attention from fans and critics, with some even comparing it to classic action films.
The movie combines intense action with a festive setting, sparking debates about whether it could join the ranks of popular Christmas classics.
Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, known for The Shallows, the film stars Taron Egerton and Jason Bateman in a gripping story set on Christmas Eve.
Egerton plays a TSA agent who is blackmailed into smuggling dangerous items onto a plane. The stakes are high, and the suspense keeps building.
Bateman takes on the role of the mastermind behind the blackmail. The cast also includes Sofia Carson, Danielle Deadwyler, and Logan Marshall-Green, adding depth to the story.
The script, written by TJ Fixman, was initially meant to launch Netflix’s collaboration with Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment. However, delays during production allowed the team to fine-tune the project.
The result has been worth the wait. Critics have praised the film as one of the best of the season. William Bibbiani of The Wrap called it “as exciting as any action movie this year.” Pramit Chatterjee of Digital Media Talkies even said it’s “the best Christmas movie of the year.”
Director Collet-Serra has openly shared that Die Hard served as a major inspiration. He explained, “Everyone wants to make the next Die Hard, but it’s a perfect movie that can’t be replicated.”
The influence of Die Hard is clear in the setting and the story of an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances. Still, the director made sure the film has its own unique style.
Critics also agree on the film’s balance of holiday spirit and action. James Dyer of Empire described it as “Die Hard karaoke” but praised its execution. Peter Debruge of Variety applauded its entertaining story, making it a great watch for the season.
With its talented cast, gripping story, and festive theme, this Netflix release has become a standout holiday thriller.
