Teen Movie Review: Red One

Teen Reviewer: Luca Hrvatin

Red One, directed by Jake Kasdan, is a movie that will make you chuckle at its best, and never completely lose your attention at its worst. Red One is a solid family friendly film that nobody will regret seeing but I doubt many will call it their favorite either. The film follows the classic buddy cop formula, allowing Chris Evans and The Rock’s natural charisma to deliver witty, marvel style dialogue throughout. Red One is an unassuming Christmas action flick to take your little siblings and cousins to see on the weekend. The plot is basic and predictable with okay performances, and uninspired visuals, it is likely that Red One will not become a classic holiday flick. 

Red One, while it has its charm, takes various ideas that are appealing to the masses, like marvel style quippy dialogue, but name actors, and the Christmas season, but don’t stop to think if these parts turn into an interesting and unique project. Some of the quippy dialogue meshed with the over the top and goofy Christmas themed humor does land. The actors bring their charm and charisma, but no performance stands out as anything new. The Rock plays the same serious action hero he has played for decades, and Chris Evans retains the sarcasm and comedic timing from his whole career.

The film's emotional core revolves around the father-son relationship between Chris Evans and Wesley Kimmel. However, there is insufficient character development for the audience to connect emotionally. The film prioritizes action and humor over building emotional connections.

The action in the film is standard, with choreography and cinematography lacking distinct flair yet still enjoyable. While the movie isn't exceptional, it remains engaging. Visual effects vary from acceptable to mediocre; some, like the practical effects of Krampus, are impressive, while others fall short.

Krampus, portrayed by Kristofer Hivju, stands out in the film, stealing the spotlight during his brief appearance and injecting energy into the story. While the movie begins to hit its stride with humor and unique ideas, Krampus's limited role can't save it. J.K. Simmons as Santa Claus also shines with charisma and comedic timing, but his absence throughout much of the plot is felt.

Red One, on the surface, is an enjoyable holiday family action movie. It won’t make waves in the Oscar discussion, but it won't be hated either. It is one of the most expensive movies of not only the year, but of all time. It is a good film but for its budget of $250 million, shouldn't we ask for more than safe and predictable?