Understanding Novichok: The Nerve Agent Weapon Explained in Carry-Ons

Warning: Contains SPOILERS for Carry-On!

The Netflix Christmas thriller Carry-On, featuring Taron Egerton and Jason Bateman, takes viewers on a rollercoaster of suspense intertwined with a significant real-world element: the use of the Novichok nerve agent. This film, perfect for fans of action classics like Die Hard, offers a unique twist on the holiday genre thanks to its intense plot and unexpected developments.

In the narrative, Ethan Kopek, played by Egerton, is a TSA agent coerced by the enigmatic Traveler (Bateman) into allowing a particular bag to pass through security. The chilling ultimatum? If he falters, his family will be in mortal danger. Initially unaware of the bag’s contents, Ethan eventually learns that it contains Novichok, a potent nerve agent intended for release on an aircraft—putting countless lives at risk.

Understanding Novichok

A Genuine Russian Nerve Agent

Novichok, although integral to the film, has its roots in reality. Developed in the Soviet Union starting around 1971, this family of nerve agents was crafted to evade detection by NATO forces. The purpose of Novichok was not only to be undetectable but also to incapacitate NATO equipment. Despite its lethal characteristics, it was engineered to be manageable for those who handle it—an unsettling irony considering its potential for destruction.

The Lethality of Novichok

A History of Assassinations and Attempts

Regarded as one of the most fearsome nerve agents, Novichok’s effects can be devastating. Its formulations reportedly exhibit potency levels five to eight times greater than VX gas, and around ten times that of Soman. Inhalation or contact with Novichok results in severe muscle spasms—ultimately leading to cardiac and respiratory failure, which can result in death.

The history of Novichok is marred by high-profile attacks, showcasing its real-world implications. From the 1995 poisoning of banker Ivan Kivelidi to the 2018 Skripal incident in the UK, where multiple casualties necessitated extensive decontamination efforts, these occurrences underscore the gravity of Novichok’s threats. The poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny in 2020 further highlights the nerve agent’s modern-day relevance.

Realism in Carry-On

Accurate Representation of the Nerve Agent

Carry-On effectively conveys the nature of Novichok, including its physical effects on the human body—a depiction bolstered by the Traveler’s chilling dialogue about its impact. The film’s portrayal of a victim’s rapid demise underscores the nerve agent’s stealth, making it a compelling yet tragic element of the storyline.

While the film accelerates the reaction time of Novichok for dramatic purposes, the connection between the character’s experiences and the real-life counterpart is strikingly accurate. This realistic portrayal enhances the sense of danger the characters face, making Carry-On not just a thrilling narrative but also a vivid reminder of a very real threat that persists in our world.

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