Warner Bros. UK invited me to an early screening of Red One, a festive, action-packed family adventure starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Chris Evans, and J.K. Simmons as Santa Claus himself.
I went into the film with little knowledge, having avoided trailers, and was pleasantly surprised. Red One may have had a substantial budget, but it pays off, delivering a fun, festive romp perfect for the holiday season.
One of the standout elements is the incredible chemistry between Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans. They bring a buddy-cop dynamic, with Evans as the wisecracking foil to Johnson’s more stoic, straight-man approach. Their comedic timing is spot-on, adding humor to every scene they share. The relationship between Simmons’ Santa Claus and Johnson’s character, Callum, is also well-executed, giving off a charming father-son vibe that adds depth to the story.
The film’s world-building and creature design were a delightful surprise. Red One creates a vivid, holiday-themed universe that feels ripe for a franchise. The action sequences are punchy and choreographed in a superhero style that’s both thrilling and humorous. The comedy lands consistently, keeping the audience laughing throughout, which only enhances the film’s festive spirit. Despite a two-hour runtime, it feels brisk and well-paced.
The CGI has some rough spots and can feel rushed at times, but it’s balanced by impressive practical effects. The design of Krampus, in particular, is fantastic, bringing to mind Tim Curry’s character in Legend. It’s intriguing and really well-done—definitely a character I’d love to see more of.
Overall, Red One is a feel-good holiday movie that has something for everyone. From parents to grandparents, siblings, and friends, this film is packed with charm and festive cheer.
I’d give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. Highly recommended—let me know what you think if you see it!
