Since its release, "Carry-On" has surged to the fifth spot on Netflix’s list of most-watched English-language films. This action-packed thriller has captivated audiences worldwide, garnering over 149.5 million views in just one month. Director Jaume Collet-Serra shares his thoughts on the film's success and what it means for the future of cinema.

Discover Why "Carry-On" Is More Than Just Entertainment

Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles International Airport, "Carry-On" follows a TSA agent, played by Oscar-nominated Taron Egerton, who finds himself entangled in a high-stakes conspiracy. When a mysterious traveler, portrayed by Jason Bateman, blackmails him into smuggling hazardous materials onto an airplane bound for New York City, chaos ensues. Sofia Carson co-stars as Egerton’s pregnant fiancée, adding layers of personal drama to this intense narrative. The ensemble cast also includes Danielle Deadwyler, Theo Rossi, Dean Norris, and Tenoch Huerta, each bringing their unique talents to the screen.

Audience Reactions and Critical Acclaim

The director, Jaume Collet-Serra, expressed immense satisfaction with the audience's response. “More than the numbers, it’s seeing people’s reactions to the movie,” he said. Friends and colleagues who were unaware of his involvement began reaching out, sharing their admiration for the film. This overwhelming positive feedback confirmed that "Carry-On" was not only entertaining but also resonating deeply with viewers. Collet-Serra emphasized the importance of connecting with the audience. He noted that while the film’s impressive view count is significant, the genuine enthusiasm from fans is what truly validates the project. The director’s ability to craft engaging narratives that resonate emotionally with viewers is a testament to his skill and dedication.

Behind the Scenes: Production Insights

Produced by Dylan Clark and Amblin Entertainment, "Carry-On" was written by T.J. Fixman. Despite being a Netflix original, Collet-Serra ensured the film maintained the same production standards as any theatrical release. “We did it exactly the same way I’ve done every movie for theatrical,” he explained. The changing landscape of cinema distribution did not compromise the film’s quality. Instead, it provided a new platform for reaching a broader audience.Collet-Serra reflected on the evolving industry. “‘Non-Stop’ did great theatrically, but if I made it today, would it go theatrical? Probably not.” The director embraced the shift towards streaming platforms, recognizing the value in making movies accessible to more people. Any means of finding an audience, whether through theaters or streaming services, is equally important. Technically and visually, "Carry-On" stands shoulder-to-shoulder with top-tier theatrical releases.

Potential Sequel Speculations

While there are currently no plans for a sequel, the possibility remains open. Collet-Serra acknowledged the potential for further exploration of the characters and storylines. “If audiences wanted a sequel, families wanted a sequel, and if we had an idea that would spark and live up to the original, maybe we would do something,” he said. Dylan Clark echoed similar sentiments, hinting at the intriguing possibilities surrounding some of the film’s characters, particularly Danielle Deadwyler’s detective Elena Cole.Clark speculated on the potential for standalone films centered around these compelling characters. “These characters are great. Look at Danielle Deadwyler’s character; you can see a world in which there’s a movie about her.” The richly developed personalities and complex backstories offer fertile ground for future storytelling.

Honoring Classic Action Films

"Carry-On" pays homage to the classic action films of the 1980s and 1990s. Netflix’s chairman of film, Dan Lin, praised the movie for capturing the essence of those iconic thrillers. “It’s a throwback to the great, original action movies that we all love,” he said. Clearly, audiences have embraced this nostalgic yet modern take on the genre. The film’s success on Netflix underscores its appeal and relevance in today’s entertainment landscape.Lin congratulated the entire team behind "Carry-On," including Jaume Collet-Serra, Dylan Clark, and the cast and crew. Their collective efforts have resulted in a film that not only entertains but also honors the tradition of action cinema. The movie’s inclusion in Netflix’s most popular films list is a testament to its quality and impact.

A Christmas Escape for Audiences

Taron Egerton described "Carry-On" as a bombastic and larger-than-life experience. “It’s a kind of great Christmas event for people to sit down and have two hours of pure escapism,” he said. The timing of the film’s release coincided with the holiday season, providing viewers with an exhilarating break from everyday life. Egerton’s enthusiasm for the project is evident, and he remains open to the possibility of a sequel. “I think it turned out great, and I am open to anything and everything,” he added.In conclusion, "Carry-On" has proven to be more than just a thrilling ride; it has become a cultural phenomenon. Its success on Netflix highlights the enduring appeal of well-crafted action films and the power of storytelling to captivate global audiences.