Curious about Netflix’s Carry On? From its filming location to TSA accuracy and real-life inspiration, we’re answering the burning questions audiences have about the movie.
Netflix’s Carry On starring Taron Egerton, Sofia Carson, and Jason Bateman has everyone talking about its heart-stopping thrills and tense airport setting, but let’s take a moment to appreciate the unexpected star of the movie: the TSA. Yes, the Transportation Security Administration, those underpaid heroes we love to hate while waiting in endless lines. The film's plot hinges on some eyebrow-raising scenarios at airport security, leaving viewers wondering just how close it comes to reality. Is the TSA really that intense, and could the events of Carry On happen in real life? Let’s break it down.
At What Airport Was Netflix's Carry On Filmed?
If you’re wondering why the airport in Carry On looks both familiar and completely unplaceable, that’s because it wasn’t filmed at a single real airport. Much of the movie’s airport action was shot on elaborate sound stages combined with scenes filmed at Ontario International Airport in California. Known for its easy access and minimal crowds, Ontario has become a go-to filming location for Hollywood productions needing an airport backdrop.
This isn’t the first time Ontario International has been featured on screen—it’s appeared in everything from commercials to blockbuster films. The production team used clever angles and CGI to make the location feel like a bustling international hub, capturing the chaos without disrupting actual travelers.
Is the Movie Based on a True Story?
The events of Carry On are pure fiction, though the film’s grounded tone might make you think otherwise. Its plot—a TSA agent caught in a moral dilemma involving national security—feels ripped from the headlines, but there’s no evidence of anything like this happening in real life. That said, the film draws inspiration from the real pressures and stakes of airport security, especially during the holiday season when tensions are at their peak.
The writers have admitted in interviews that they leaned heavily on real TSA training procedures and interviews with agents to craft a story that feels plausible, even if it’s ultimately Hollywood drama. If anything, it’s a testament to the TSA’s often-overlooked role in keeping travelers safe under immense pressure.
Does TSA Approve of the Movie?
Surprisingly, the TSA has been relatively quiet about Carry On. While the film dramatizes their work in some areas, it also highlights the enormous responsibility agents carry every day. In fact, some agents have taken to social media to share their thoughts, with responses ranging from “This would never happen” to “Finally, people see how stressful this job is.”
The TSA often uses pop culture moments like this to engage with the public and raise awareness about their mission (and maybe win back some goodwill). So while the agency hasn’t officially endorsed the film, it wouldn’t be surprising if they used its buzz to remind travelers to pack smart and stay patient.
Can a TSA Agent Really Be That Suspicious?
One of Carry On’s big tension points is the TSA agent’s gut instinct about a potential threat. While most of us assume TSA is just checking liquids and laptops, agents are trained in behavior detection techniques. They look for subtle cues like body language, tone of voice, and even microexpressions.
That said, the film stretches this a bit. TSA’s behavioral detection program has faced criticism for being subjective and unreliable—so while they’re definitely trained to spot sketchy vibes, they’re not exactly human lie detectors. Still, after watching the movie, you might think twice about your nervous laughter at the checkpoint.
Is TSA as Intense as the Movie Makes It Seem?
Carry On turns the TSA into a high-stakes operation where one wrong move can spiral into total chaos. In reality, while TSA agents are trained to handle emergencies, their day-to-day focus is preventing prohibited items from getting on board—not unraveling massive criminal conspiracies.
That said, TSA’s K-9 units and federal air marshals (also featured in the film) are very real and play a critical role in ensuring passenger safety. If you’re curious, their Instagram is surprisingly wholesome, filled with good boys sniffing out contraband and making airports safer one wag at a time.
Let’s be honest: Carry On is not the kind of movie you want to watch before a flight. Its claustrophobic tension and worst-case scenarios are enough to have even seasoned travelers sweating through TSA PreCheck. But for the rest of us, it’s a reminder to pack light, follow the rules, and maybe bring an extra book for those inevitable delays.
On the flip side, if you’re someone who thrives on true-crime podcasts during long flights, this might just be your new favorite movie. Just don’t blame Netflix when you start side-eyeing the TSA agent scanning your ID.
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