Red One (2024) is a Christmas action-comedy featuring a star-studded cast including Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, J.K. Simmons, Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka, and more. The story follows Callum Drift (Johnson), head of North Pole security, and Jack O’Malley (Evans), a hacker-turned-bounty-hunter, as they team up to rescue Santa on Christmas Eve

Strengths delivered in excess:

• Grand visuals with glittering CGI and wintry effects that cater heavily to holiday spectacle

• Fast-paced, globe-spanning action sequences that make for a breezy, fun ride

• A subtle emotional core where Jack’s transformation into a more responsible father adds a touch of heart amidst the chaos

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Noticeable flaws:

• The plot structure feels overstuffed and formulaic, with too many undeveloped ideas

• Over-the-top CGI sometimes backfires, making scenes feel artificial rather than immersive

• Critics agree it lacks real Christmas magic—missing the emotional warmth of classic holiday films

Bottom line: Red One is a quick-fix entertainment ride, heavy on effects and action—ideal for mindless holiday binge-watching. But if you’re after cozy, heartfelt Christmas storytelling, this movie may not meet that need.