Mark Wahlberg takes flight as villain in gripping new thriller
Mark Wahlberg plays the lead role in the film "Flight Risk," directed by Mel Gibson. The 53-year-old actor portrays Daryl Booth, a psychopathic pilot. He has openly shared that he had been waiting for such a role for a long time.
"Flight Risk" marks Mel Gibson's debut as a thriller director. The film follows an agent, played by Michelle Dockery, as she accompanies a witness, portrayed by Topher Grace, in a mafia trial, traveling in a small plane over the Alaskan mountains.
With only a small crew on board—consisting of Agent Harris, the handcuffed witness, and the pilot, played by Mark Wahlberg—the flight is expected to be the easiest way to get the witness to court.
Everything seems to be going according to plan until an unexpected moment over the icy terrain. This is when it becomes clear that not everyone in the cabin is who they claim to be. It quickly becomes apparent that the reach of the mafia boss extends even here, at altitude.
Mark Wahlberg to play the role of a psychopathic pilot. He has been waiting for such a role for 30 years
A dramatic struggle for control of the plane ensues. In this precarious situation, only one person on board can properly pilot the aircraft. Meanwhile, fighter jets are on high alert, ready to shoot down the plane if Harris can't regain control in time. Heightening the tension, the aircraft flies into storm clouds.
Mel Gibson admitted that the script made a profound impression on him. The director, as quoted by the "Monolith" agency, said that it terrified him at times even shocked him, but it was also perfectly balanced with dark humor.
Mark Wahlberg last played a similar character almost 30 years ago in the movie "Fear." He found participating in this director's production satisfying. The actor reportedly said that he read the script, and he fell in love with it! He hasn't played such a bad guy since 'Fear' in 1996.
The premiere of "Flight Risk" is set for January 31, 2025.
