Despite the star power and aviation allure, the Discovery+ series falls short due to repetitive content, superficial treatment, and questionable safety protocols.
Flight Risk presents an intriguing premise: actor Mark Wahlberg and his close friend, former fighter pilot Bryan Cranston, team up for aerial adventures in Alaska's breathtaking wilderness.
The two navigate treacherous terrain in bushplanes, engaging with local communities and immersing themselves in the remote beauty of the Last Frontier.
While the premise holds promise, the execution leaves much to be desired. Flight Risk suffers from repetitive content and a superficial treatment of Alaska's aviation culture.
Each episode follows a similar formula: Wahlberg and Cranston meet with local pilots, take to the skies, and encounter minor obstacles that are quickly resolved. The lack of narrative progression and character development results in a monotonous viewing experience.
Moreover, the series fails to delve deeply into the nuances of Alaskan aviation. The complexities of operating bushplanes, the challenges faced by remote communities, and the delicate balance between wilderness preservation and economic development are barely touched upon.
Beyond the lack of depth, Flight Risk raises concerns about safety protocols.
In one episode, Wahlberg and Cranston are shown flying in a small plane that is clearly overloaded. The aircraft's weight and balance are not addressed, and no safety concerns are raised. Such reckless behavior sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the credibility of the series.
Despite its flaws, Flight Risk does offer some redeeming qualities.
The aerial footage of Alaska's stunning landscapes is breathtaking, capturing the grandeur of its mountains, glaciers, and rivers. Viewers are treated to breathtaking visuals that showcase the raw beauty of the American wilderness.
Critics have had mixed reactions to Flight Risk.
Entertainment Weekly described the series as "a missed opportunity, squandering its potential with shallow exploration and questionable safety practices." The New York Times praised the "engaging" Wahlberg and Cranston but criticized the repetitive nature of the episodes.
Experts in aviation safety and Alaskan culture have expressed concern about Flight Risk.
Randall C. Burdette, a retired Air Force pilot and aviation safety consultant, criticized the series for its "complete lack of any mention of safety and risk management" and questioned the use of inadequately equipped aircraft.
Dan Richards, president of the Alaska Airmen's Association, lamented the show's failure to accurately represent the challenges and responsibilities of bush flying in Alaska.
Flight Risk fails to live up to its promise of a thrilling and educational adventure in Alaska.
The repetitive content, superficial exploration, and questionable safety concerns undermine the series' credibility and entertainment value. While the aerial footage is undeniably stunning, it cannot compensate for the lack of depth and substance.
Ultimately, Flight Risk barely flies with a 5/10 rating, serving as a disappointing opportunity lost.
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