The upcoming Flight Risk trailer has fans buzzing as Mark Wahlberg gears up to play a hitman pilot under the direction of Mel Gibson. Slated for release on October 18, this film marks Gibson’s return to directing after an eight-year hiatus since Hacksaw Ridge.
Gibson’s previous work, including Hacksaw Ridge, has been highly acclaimed, with Andrew Garfield delivering an Oscar-nominated performance. Describing his own experience, Wahlberg said, Having seen Apocalypto a million times and Braveheart and every other film that he’s directed, he’s such a talented filmmaker.
Wahlberg returns as a hitman
In Flight Risk, Wahlberg plays the role of a pilot tasked with flying U.S. Marshal Harris (Michelle Dockery) and a key witness (Topher Grace) who is set to testify against a dangerous mob family. The situation escalates as it becomes clear that the pilot is not who he claims to be, revealing his true identity as a hitman for the Moretti family.
A rapid production schedule
The film was notably shot in just 22 days, which Wahlberg attributes to Gibson’s efficient directing style. He noted, To be shooting 15, 20 pages a day…this was in 20 or 22 days.
This rapid approach showcases Gibson’s ability to deliver intense, high-quality performances swiftly.
Cinematic history
Flight Risk‘s script from Jared Rosenberg landed on The Black List in 2020, highlighting it as one of the most-liked unproduced scripts of the year. This marks the first collaboration between Wahlberg and Gibson where Gibson takes on the director’s role. Their previous works together as actors include Father Stu and Daddy’s Home 2.
The team behind the project
The production of Flight Risk began in June 2023 and benefited from a SAG-AFTRA waiver during the writer and actor strikes, allowing filming to continue uninterrupted. This move speaks volumes about the commitment to bringing this thrilling story to life.
Praise for Gibson’s directorial skills
Mark Wahlberg has lauded Mel Gibson’s work ethic, expressing admiration for his vision and leadership. He highlighted how remarkable it was to shoot efficiently while maintaining quality, stating, He knew exactly what he wanted and how to get it but was also open to collaborating.
A look back at Hacksaw Ridge
Gibson’s last directorial project, Hacksaw Ridge, was nominated for six Oscars and won two for Best Editing and Sound Mixing. This historical drama showcasing Andrew Garfield’s portrayal of Desmond Doss grossed $180 million worldwide. Fans are eager to see if Gibson can replicate this success with Flight Risk.
The narrative and cast dynamics
The dynamic between Wahlberg’s hitman pilot and his passengers is poised to drive suspense throughout the film. Michelle Dockery’s portrayal of U.S. Marshal Harris will add depth to this complex plot alongside Topher Grace’s character attempting to escape from criminal pursuers.
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