Dwayne Johnson plays one of several versions of himself in this movie. There’s a reason he’s one of the top earning actors in Hollywood. He’s strong, good looking, funny, and can sing (Moana.) Is there anything he can’t do?
No, there isn't, and it takes a Body-by-Rock to look this impressive in a red and green ELF suit next to Chris (Captain America) Evans. For the record, Evans is one of the current crop of action heroes named Chris – Pratt, Hemsworth, Pine – who even joke about getting each other confused.
One exchange in Red One between Johnson and Evans sums it up:
Evans: “You’re not human?”
Johnson: “Do I look human?”
You can find out for yourself what E.L.F. stands for. It’s one of numerous opportunities to inject some humor into this Christmas action film. And along the way, every single belief about Santa Claus that kids eventually question is explained and demonstrated. You’ll find yourself believing again, if you ever stopped.
I guess this is one for the kid in all of us, with high entertainment value, spectacular sets, creatures and characters, a Santa’s sack full of battles and bad guys, and a sleigh that’s to die for.
69-year-old J.K. Simmons, who can play just about any part he chooses without being typecast, set aside his State Farm gig for a fun outing as a ripped Saint Nick who never gets fat. That, of course, is because he burns 380 million calories in one night. See what I mean? Santa’s diet explained. I suspect Johnson may have put him through some workouts.
Lucy Liu stepped out of her many TV and voice jobs to play Zoe, Dwayne’s boss in a secret agency that protects Santa. She can still kick and punch in best Charlie’s Angels and Kill Bill style as if she hasn’t aged since 2000. Despite all the technology hidden at the North Pole, Santa is kidnapped, and that’s when the fun begins.
See this now or stream it later, but it’s a fun addition to the growing portfolio of fringe Christmas fare. It leaves you feeling good, if a bit flabby.
Red One (2024) runs 2 hour 3 minutes and is rated PG-13
