For families looking for a fresh twist on Christmas entertainment, Red One is a delightful and action-packed choice that delivers holiday magic with a modern edge. It balances holiday cheer with family-friendly thrills, and while it has a PG-13 edge, it’s suitable for most age groups with some guidance for younger viewers. The film’s unique characters and mythical undertones may even make it a new holiday classic for families who love a good action-comedy that leaves them laughing and feeling festive. Red One is in UK cinemas from today.
The story
Red One kicks off with Jack “The Wolf” O’Malley (Chris Evans), a once-cynical anti-hero and master thief, hired for what appears to be a straightforward heist. Soon, however, the mission escalates into a larger scheme when Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons) is abducted. Enter Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), head of an organisation called ELF (Enforcement, Logistics, and Fortification), who reluctantly teams up with Jack to save the beloved holiday icon. Alongside them is Lucy Liu as Zoe Harlow, a no-nonsense chief of the North Pole’s mythological intelligence agency, adding an extra layer of magical espionage. The unlikely duo must navigate their differences while trying to thwart the festive threat, bridging Christmas magic with high-stakes action in a way that appeals to both younger and older audiences.
The trailer
What families should know before heading to the cinema
Rated PG-13, Red One includes mild language, brief suggestive humour, and fantasy violence that could be intense for younger children. Scenes with Jack, as he navigates his morally grey path, may be more complex, as he portrays a character with some rough edges, though his growth towards a warmer, more family-oriented perspective is central to the story. The film handles its action with a comic-book sensibility, which lessens its intensity, but the fast-paced sequences and certain jokes are crafted with older children in mind.
The chemistry between Evans and Johnson shines, delivering a mix of wit, banter, and physical comedy that makes Red One an entertaining watch for parents and teens alike. Lucy Liu’s character, a North Pole agent who oversees Christmas mythological intelligence, brings a touch of espionage intrigue and introduces a world of magical realism that’s fun to explore. There’s also an intriguing nod to the possibility of other holiday-based heroes, which hints at potential sequels.
Find the odd one out …. Ha ha ha
The film does bring in themes of teamwork, redemption, and kindness, which may prompt family discussions around the values of Christmas and the importance of forgiveness and belief in oneself.
While Red One carries a PG-13 rating, it is primarily due to mild language, some holiday-themed violence, and a few intense action scenes. Younger audiences should enjoy the magical elements and holiday themes, and there are no inappropriate scenes unsuitable for children. However, parents of very young children might want to note that some of the action sequences could feel intense for the youngest viewers. Chris Evans’ character occasionally uses mild language, and the themes of “naughty vs. nice” are explored with humour but might require a bit of parental explanation for clarity.
Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans are brilliantly cast as a mismatched pair forced to work together, delivering a blend of holiday cheer and intense action reminiscent of classic buddy-cop comedies.
The verdict
For London Mums looking for a new holiday film to share with older children, Red One offers a fresh, action-filled take on the holiday movie genre. While it may not be suitable for the littlest viewers, its balance of humour, heartfelt moments, and thrilling adventure makes it a worthwhile choice for family movie night with teens. With Evans and Johnson leading the sleigh ride, this festive buddy-cop adventure delivers a blend of magic, laughter, and action that’s bound to become a seasonal favourite.
The holiday season gets an energetic, action-packed boost with Red One, a new family-friendly but action-filled film starring the charismatic duo of Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans. This adventure flick, directed by Jake Kasdan and crafted by Fast & Furious writer Chris Morgan, offers a playful mix of magic, comedy, and an unexpected twist on traditional Christmas tropes. The film follows an unlikely partnership between a mythic Santa protector and a reformed rogue as they team up to rescue none other than Santa Claus himself from kidnappers.
One of the film’s most enjoyable aspects is J.K. Simmons as Santa Claus, a robust and feisty version of the character who adds an extra layer of toughness. While the film has heartfelt themes around redemption and the true meaning of Christmas, its action sequences – featuring well-choreographed fights and high-energy pursuits – may appeal more to teens than younger viewers.
Red One brings the holidays to life with vibrant visuals and a soundtrack composed by Henry Jackman, whose scores range from playful heist tunes to grand, seasonal themes that infuse the film with energy. Cinema-goers can expect plenty of Christmas spirit combined with a unique twist on holiday traditions, delivering a film that mixes charm with action, much like classics from the ‘80s and ‘90s.
While Red One isn’t a traditional Christmas film, it offers something for everyone. There’s enough humour, action, and heartfelt holiday magic to please families, teens, and even adults looking for an inventive seasonal story. The movie’s moderate runtime of just over two hours makes it too lengthy for younger children and for parents alike. One hour and half would have been plenty.
The film’s special effects and action scenes are best enjoyed on the big screen, with surround sound amplifying the North Pole’s snowy expanses and intense chases.
Parents may wish to discuss the themes of forgiveness, teamwork, and “naughty vs. nice” in a more relatable context for children.
London Mums’ rating: 7/10
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