Jason Bateman Talks Villain Role in Netflix's Carry-On Ahead of December Release

Netflix's upcoming action thriller Carry-On features a star-studded cast including Taron Egerton, Sinqua Walls, and Jason Bateman. Bateman, known for his roles in Game Night and Ozark, plays a mysterious antagonist in the film. During the film's premiere at the Egyptian Theater, Bateman shared his excitement about portraying a villain who isn’t the typical "hardened criminal." "I’m not some hardened criminal-looking kind of guy, so I’m glad they didn’t want me to play him like that," Bateman explained to The Hollywood Reporter.

Bateman further described his character’s approach, stating, "They let me do it as just a guy and this is just his job." His character plans to blackmail TSA agent Ethan Kopek, played by Taron Egerton, into allowing a dangerous package onto a Christmas Eve flight. Bateman humorously added that after his character’s plot to blow up a plane, he plans to "move on to the next thing" and head home for Christmas.

Egerton, who plays the TSA agent, also spoke about his admiration for Bateman. He called the experience of working alongside him "surreal," noting that he’s long been a fan of Bateman’s roles in Arrested Development and Ozark.

In addition to Egerton, Bateman, and Walls, Carry-On features Danielle Deadwyler, Dean Norris, Theo Rossi, and Sofia Carson. Carson plays Nora Parisi, the girlfriend of Egerton's character, who also works at the airport.

Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and written by T.J. Fixman and Michael Green, Carry-On will be available on Netflix starting December 13, 2024.