Must-Watch Liam Neeson Movie from a Decade Ago on Netflix After Carry-On

Netflix’s latest thriller, Carry-On, injects a fresh dose of excitement into holiday cinema. With a plot that draws parallels to iconic action films like Die Hard and Liam Neeson’s Non-Stop, this movie is sure to captivate audiences. Starring Taron Egerton as TSA agent Ethan Kopek, Carry-On thrusts him into chaos when he becomes embroiled in a conspiracy to smuggle a nerve agent past airport security and onto a plane. The film escalates the tension through a gripping cat-and-mouse game between Egerton and Jason Bateman, who plays the enigmatic “Traveler,” culminating in an electrifying final showdown.

For fans of thrilling narratives, Carry-On also offers a nostalgic nod to Neeson’s classic. Released a decade ago, Non-Stop shares a similar premise, set mostly aboard an aircraft, with tantalizing action and engaging characters. Both films maintain an intense pace, revolving around the quest to uncover the identity of the villain. Financially, Non-Stop triumphed, amassing $222.8 million worldwide against a budget of $50 million, according to Box Office Mojo. In contrast, Carry-On has made its mark with a commendable critic’s score of 86% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Non-Stop: The Ideal Follow-Up to Carry-On

Why Non-Stop & Carry-On Complement Each Other

After enjoying Carry-On, viewers will find that Non-Stop serves as an excellent follow-up, amplifying the action within a more confined environment. While Carry-On predominantly unfolds in an airport, climaxing on a plane, Non-Stop fully immerses audiences in the high-stakes narrative during a transcontinental flight. In fact, the premise of Non-Stop lends itself as a logical sequel to Carry-On, pivoting on Neeson’s character, Bill Marks, as he races against time to thwart a bomb threat mid-flight.

Both films maintain a similar theme of suspense, illustrated by the tension in Carry-On as Ethan tracks down The Traveler. Similarly, Bill Marks grapples with finding the blackmailers and disarming the bomb while en route to London. Notably, both films share director Jaume Collet-Serra, further enhancing their stylistic resemblance. With Non-Stop leaving Netflix at the end of December, fans are encouraged to relish this dynamic duo before it’s too late.

The Neeson Influence: Why Carry-On Mirrors Liam Neeson’s Style

Taron Egerton’s Character Embodies Neeson’s Action Hero Traits

The thematic resonance between Carry-On and Neeson’s works is unmistakable, especially considering Collet-Serra’s involvement. This collaboration extends beyond one film; they previously teamed up for Unknown (2011), Run All Night (2015), and The Commuter (2018). Therefore, it’s no surprise that the protagonist of Carry-On mirrors Neeson’s iconic roles in previous films.

Similarities between Ethan and Bill abound — both characters face perilous situations, drawing on their unique skills and background to outsmart adversaries. Their journey is marked by the urgency to protect their loved ones, a narrative thread that resonates deeply with audiences.

The Prospect of a Carry-On Sequel Featuring Liam Neeson

A New Dynamic: Neeson as the Antagonist in Carry-On 2

Interest in a sequel, Carry-On 2, has already been expressed by Egerton, contingent on a creative story that unfolds naturally. Should this sequel materialize, incorporating Neeson could signify another fraught collaboration between the director and actor. Given that by the end of Carry-On, Ethan achieves his dream of becoming a cop, casting Neeson as the antagonist could present a captivating twist, offering a refreshing take on his usual hero roles.

This alteration could challenge audience expectations, as Neeson’s character would stand in stark contrast to his traditionally heroic portrayals. As Carry-On 2 possibly explores Ethan’s evolving character amidst new familial stakes, a villainous Neeson could provide a compelling narrative backdrop, enhancing the overall excitement of the sequel. Given the neat setup at the end of Carry-On, a follow-up seems not just welcomed but anticipated.

Sources: Box Office Mojo, Rotten Tomatoes

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