Mark Wahlberg's "Flight Risk" Takes Off as Box Office Hit, Despite Being a Flight Risk

The highly anticipated action-comedy film "Flight Risk" starring Mark Wahlberg has taken to the skies, earning $12M in its opening weekend and securing the second No. 1 opening of 2025 for Lionsgate. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the movie has performed well at the box office, with Wahlberg's portrayal of a sociopathic pilot being a major draw for audiences.

The film's success can be attributed to its all-star cast, including Michelle Dockery and Topher Grace, as well as its unique blend of action, humor, and romance. However, critics have panned the movie for its muddled tone, cringe-worthy dialogue, and nonsensical plot. Wahlberg's performance, in particular, has been fascinating, with the actor fully immersing himself in the role of a hitman posing as a pilot. His commitment to the character was so intense that he stayed in character even off-set, affecting his interactions with the cast.

The movie's box office performance has been notable, with a strong opening weekend and a total of $70.2M in revenue, including flight cancellations and delays. The film's success has also surpassed Lionsgate's last No. 1 opening, "Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes", which earned $11.43M. The movie's appeal has been limited, but it has performed well on social media, appealing more to a male audience. However, the movie's viewership has failed to live up to expectations, with other movies such as Disney's "Mufasa: The Lion King" and Sony's "One of Them Days" also performing well at the box office.

In conclusion, "Flight Risk" has taken off as a box office hit, despite being a flight risk in terms of its critical reception. Wahlberg's performance has been a major draw for audiences, and the movie's unique blend of action, humor, and romance has appealed to a male audience. However, the movie's limited appeal and mixed reviews from critics have prevented it from reaching its full potential.