Michelle Dockery Commends Flight Risk’s Unique Script: “I’ve Never Read Anything Like This Before”

Michelle Dockery takes on a challenging role in Flight Risk, where she portrays US Marshal Madolyn Harris. This riveting film, directed by Mel Gibson, also features notable performances from Mark Wahlberg as Daryl Booth, the pilot, and Topher Grace as Winston, an accountant who becomes an informant against a notorious crime syndicate. As Madolyn embarks on a perilous journey to escort Winston from his secluded Alaskan hideaway to New York City, the mission soon unravels when Daryl reveals his true identity as a hitman assigned to eliminate Winston.

Dockery’s Experience with Aerial Thrillers

Before Flight Risk, Dockery showcased her talent in high-pressure scenarios in the 2014 film Non-Stop, where she starred alongside Liam Neeson. Her extensive work includes the critically acclaimed role of Lady Mary Crawley in the Downton Abbey series, which garnered her three Primetime Emmy Award nominations. As audiences anticipate the release of Flight Risk, ScreenRant took the opportunity to engage with Dockery about her character’s complex nature, the intense filming environment, and her reflections on saying farewell to Downton Abbey.

How Does Madolyn Keep Composure?

“She’s really needing to prove herself to her peers…”

Michelle Dockery looking scared in Flight Risk

ScreenRant: Can you describe Madolyn Harris and her approach to maintaining her composure in these extreme situations?

Michelle Dockery: Maintaining composure is essential for a US Marshal in high-stress environments. It constitutes the primary aspect of the job. Staying calm and approaching situations logically prevents them from escalating. In Flight Risk, circumstances quickly spiral out of Madolyn’s control, highlighting her responsibility to safely escort federal subjects. Throughout the film, we learn about her career’s ups and downs, revealing that she is eager to demonstrate her capabilities to her peers and superiors. The challenges she faces are immense, making this role truly captivating. When I first read the script, I was struck by its uniqueness. I have a profound respect for state marshals and the demanding situations they navigate.

Flight Risk’s Stage-like Environment

Dockery Takes on a Unique Filming Challenge

ScreenRant: What unique challenges did you face while filming, considering the limited cast and setting?

Michelle Dockery: The experience was quite unique and felt almost theatrical, as we had just three central characters and a tight setting for 90 minutes. This unusual format presented both challenges and opportunities. Upon boarding the plane, we immediately realized its confined space—only about four feet tall—which prompted inventive exploration of our interactions. The incredibly talented creative team enhanced our performance with impressive special effects, particularly the plane’s hydraulics. Navigating fight sequences in such a small area was tricky, but with Mark’s skilled stunt team orchestrating the choreography, it became an exciting challenge. Overall, being part of this production was an enriching experience.

A Fond Farewell to Downton Abbey

“We really relished every minute…”

Michelle Dockery in Downton Abbey — Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley

ScreenRant: With the final film in the Downton trilogy on the horizon, what emotions surfaced during filming? Was there a feeling of closure?

Michelle Dockery: Given the immense popularity of Downton Abbey, there’s always potential for future stories. However, as we shot the final film, we were aware it marked the end of an era. With 15 years together as a family, we savored every moment. It was an emotional experience, knowing it was the last installment.

About Flight Risk (2025)

In this gripping suspense thriller, Academy Award nominee Mark Wahlberg stars as a pilot charged with transporting a US Marshal (Michelle Dockery) and a fugitive (Topher Grace) to trial. As they traverse the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness, trust wavers, and tensions rise, revealing that not every passenger is who they claim to be.

Watch the trailer here

Flight Risk is now showing in theaters.

Source: ScreenRant Plus

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