Historically relevant as one of the only films to have created a huge pre-release buzz that even led to a lot of fan theories and comments being incorporated into the script, David R. Ellis’ 2006 action film Snakes on a Plane has finally arrived on Netflix to take the world by a storm. Starring Samuel L. Jackson as a foul-mouthed badass FBI agent, the film is high on lowbrow comedy and mindless action, making it one of the actor’s finest outings.
The film is exactly what the title suggests. There are snakes. Lots of them. On a plane. Inspired by the story of brown vipers sticking to planes during the Second World War, this film starts off with a witness being escorted by two FBI agents onboard a plane. The witness is offered whiskey in first-class while the camera pans over the various kinds of passengers.
Unfortunately, CGI vipers have been placed in the aeroplane by the offender who descended out of a timed casket, at first murdering the poor pets that were placed in the cargo section before targeting the couple who were a part of the mile-high club. Things quickly go awry as the snakes continue attacking the passengers and even makes it to the cockpit to incapacitate the pilot.
If you are looking for a thrill ride that might scar you forever, this film is a must-watch as it introduces the possibility of being helpless at the mercy of seemingly bloodthirsty vipers. You either love Snakes on a Plane or hate it but cannot ignore Jackson’s genius as the crass-talking FBI agent who manages to fight the snakes with his bare hands. While the tension in the film is quite palpable, it is difficult to determine if it is worth the second watch.
If you are bored of the potent and serious options on Netflix, Jackson shouting about the “motherfuckin’ snakes on the motherfuckin’ plane” might just be the escape you need. Over-the-top sequences and overly-dramatic performances are, however, overshadowed by Jackson’s uber-cool attitude and iconic dialogues. He is the proper hero in the film who prevails and saves lives amidst the various disaster film stereotypical characters perishing.
If you have watched Eight-Legged Freaks, you would know why these horror comedies seem so alike. You cannot take these ridiculous premises seriously yet it drives in an irrational fear that constantly nags your conscience and understanding. It has garnered a massive cult-like following and Samuel Jackson-enthusiasts definitely love boarding this flight despite its venomously bizarre premise!
“Enough is enough! I’ve had it with these motherfuckin’ snakes on this motherfuckin’ plane!”
