Since its streaming debut over the Christmas season, Carry-On has garnered a mixed reception from critics and audiences alike, yet the film evidently lays the groundwork for a potential sequel. Headlined by Taron Egerton from Kingsman and featuring Jason Bateman alongside Theo Rossi from Sons of Anarchy, the film’s cast has drawn significant attention. Despite achieving a high critical rating, *Carry-On* registered a low audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Nonetheless, audience engagement has soared, with predictions suggesting the film will soon become one of Netflix’s most-watched releases ever.
In terms of narrative, *Carry-On* has drawn comparisons to the iconic Die Hard, both presenting gripping tales of a cop embroiled in perilous situations. While the climactic moments in *Carry-On* do not mirror the spectacular demise of Hans Gruber, the plot’s conclusion suggests that the central antagonist will not return. However, the film is packed with unresolved threads and unanswered questions, providing ample opportunity for a sequel to address these issues.
10
The Unexplained Blue-Haired Woman
The Mysterious Disappearance of The Traveler’s Helper
Among the film’s antagonists is a blue-haired woman whose fate remains a mystery. She is initially seen providing Ethan with an earpiece before the larger conspiracy unfolds. When Ethan connects with The Traveler, she has already bypassed security. Her reappearance later, when she hands The Traveler a parachute, only to seemingly vanish, leaves audiences baffled.
This enigmatic character stands out as one of the film’s critical loose ends, and her role could be pivotal in a sequel. Given that The Traveler’s group has coerced ordinary individuals like Ethan and Mateo into their scheme, one wonders whether she too is another innocent entangled in their dangerous game or perhaps a key player. A sequel could finally bring clarity to her mysterious presence.
9
Ethan’s Career Shift Presents Sequel Opportunities
Ethan’s New Role as a Cop Could Unlock New Skills
Ethan’s journey to becoming a police officer is both tumultuous and interesting. Initially rejected due to a failed polygraph test—a source of shame he hides from his girlfriend—he nonetheless shows promise. The film concludes with Ethan seemingly given a second chance as he walks through airport security with his badge.
With his intelligence and creativity, obtaining a police role might enable Ethan to explore a wealth of new skills. Mirroring John McClane from the Die Hard franchise, Ethan’s new abilities could empower him to tackle unsolved cases and engage in strategic confrontations with The Traveler’s network. A sequel could significantly develop the tension between Ethan and The Traveler’s associates, establishing fresh stakes and new strategies for thwarting their plans.
8
Jesse’s Revenge: A Possible Sequel Arc
The Countdown to Jesse’s Revenge Mission Following Mateo’s Death
The character of Mateo Flores forms a crucial link between Ethan and the larger antagonistic forces in *Carry-On*. His relationship with Ethan evolves amidst captivity threats from The Watcher, who uses Mateo’s husband, Jesse, as leverage. Following Mateo’s tragic demise during a tense standoff, Jesse showcases his shooting skills by taking out The Watcher with precision.
Mateo’s death resonates strongly, leaving Jesse to navigate his grief. Given Jesse’s demonstrated proficiency in firearms under duress, a sequel could explore his path of vengeance against the villains, potentially establishing a narrative that centers on a gay character’s drive for justice in an action-packed storyline.
7
A Potential Focus on Ethan and Jason’s Dynamic
Examining the Dynamics of Jason’s Trust in Ethan
In *Carry-On*, Ethan’s initial role as The Traveler’s target complicates his relationship with Jason. During the film’s climax, Ethan’s desperate actions to save Jason ultimately result in dismissal from the team. Nonetheless, the series of events seemingly deepens their bond, especially as they prepare to travel to Tahiti at the film’s end.
A sequel could delve into their evolving dynamic, exploring Jason’s willingness to trust Ethan despite past betrayals. The backdrop of their adventures may reveal opportunities for collaboration against new threats or to seek justice against The Traveler’s original cohort.
6
The Unresolved Threat of Novichok
The Lingering Danger of the Novichok Nerve Agent
Novichok, a notorious Russian nerve agent linked to numerous fatalities since the 1990s, plays a prominent role in *Carry-On*. This highly lethal substance is portrayed as dangerous despite allegedly being easier to handle than other arms. However, the film concludes without the thorough removal of the remaining Novichok canister, posing a looming threat for the sequel.
The assumption is made that cleanup crews will secure and dispose of the threat, yet the film introduces the possibility of infiltration even within law enforcement. This element could pave the way for fresh narratives about corruption and the extent of The Traveler’s influence in a follow-up film.
5
Ethan’s Father: An Intriguing Mystery
Ethan’s Father as a Central Figure in *Carry-On 2*
During the polygraph exam for his police academy application, Ethan lied to protect his father, whose petty thefts led to his own failure in the academy. Now an Uber driver, Ethan’s father becomes a potential focal point for the sequel’s narrative.
The question remains: who exactly is Ethan’s father? While some aspects of his character hint at the criminal world, others suggest deeper secrets. A sequel could reveal him as an undercover operative, provide opportunities for redemption, or even illustrate different facets of his past that connect with the larger narrative in *Carry-On 2*.
4
Ethan and Nora: Goal Yet to Be Achieved
The Journey to Tahiti Still Awaits
Throughout *Carry-On*, both Ethan and Nora express their desire to vacation in Tahiti. Although it seems they may finally realize this dream at the film’s conclusion, the narrative ends amid uncertainty at the baggage claim, indicating that unforeseen obstacles could derail their plans.
A sequel could transport the characters into yet another thrilling airport adventure or an exploration of new threats while en route to Tahiti, cementing this location as a vivid backdrop in the next installment.
3
Olek’s Mysterious Absence
Exploring the Unsolved Death of Olek
The death of Olek stands out as a critical plot point left unresolved in *Carry-On*. His demise falls under dubious circumstances, incited by a lethal transaction for Novichok, thus sparking intrigue regarding the broader implications of his death.
The film not only fails to clarify the specifics of Olek’s murder but leaves his family and associates vulnerable. A sequel could potentially delve into the motivations of Olek’s colleagues and relatives, exploring the ripple effects created by The Traveler’s actions.
2
The Enigma of The Traveler
Unraveling The Mystery Behind The Traveler
Bateman’s portrayal of The Traveler serves as a notable highlight of *Carry-On*, merging charm with menace in a single character. Despite his skillful manipulation of situations, little is known about his true identity. With his demise confirmed at the film’s conclusion, the potential for flashbacks in a sequel could illuminate this shadowy figure, deepening our understanding of his past and the moral dilemmas encountered.
1
Hints in the Credits: The X-Rays
Beyond Luggage: The Clues in the Carry-On Credits
The credits of *Carry-On* showcase an array of items making their way through airport security, from mundane objects to suspicious ones like bombs and cash-filled bags. If a sequel were to take shape, these items could serve as intriguing Easter eggs for audiences, potentially foreshadowing elements pivotal to the plot of *Carry-On 2*. Not only could viewers spot these objects, but they could become central to the unfolding adventure.
Should *Carry-On 2* pay homage to its predecessor while establishing its own legacy, it could garner the same holiday watch status as the famed Die Hard series, thus solidifying the franchise’s place within the action genre.
Leave a Reply