Red One (2024): Full list of cast explored

Red One (2024) is a holiday-themed action film, blending the Christmas spirit with thrilling adventure. Directed by Jake Kasdan, the film brings together a stellar cast, with Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans leading a lineup that includes Lucy Liu, J.K. Simmons, Kiernan Shipka, and many more.

The storyline dives into an original world where Santa Claus’s North Pole isn’t just a cozy workshop but also a highly secure, mystifying location filled with myth and magic. As Christmas approaches, an unexpected infiltration puts the North Pole and Christmas itself at risk, pulling viewers into a high-stakes journey.

This Amazon MGM Studios production, in collaboration with Seven Bucks Productions, is already being discussed as the first in a possible Christmas franchise.

Its storyline and star-studded cast make it a fresh take on holiday movies, with Warner Bros. Pictures releasing it internationally on November 6 and a U.S. release slated for November 15, 2024.

Dwayne Johnson and others star in Red One

1) Dwayne Johnson as Callum Drift

Dwayne Johnson, also known as The Rock, is no stranger to action and adventure films, with a track record that includes Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Fast & Furious, and Black Adam. In Red One, Johnson takes on the role of Callum Drift, the head of Santa Claus's security at the North Pole.

Callum is a strong-willed protector who’s starting to feel disillusioned with the rise in naughty behavior across the world. With a desire to retire, Callum finds himself pulled into one last adventure when Santa is kidnapped, forcing him to team up with a reluctant hacker to save Christmas.

2) Chris Evans as Jack O'Malley

Known for his iconic role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Chris Evans is a versatile actor whose recent roles, including Knives Out and The Gray Man, show his range. In Red One, Evans plays Jack O'Malley, a skilled hacker and bounty hunter who unwittingly becomes involved in a plot against Santa Claus.

When Jack learns his actions have inadvertently put Christmas in jeopardy, he reluctantly joins forces with Callum to make things right. Jack’s role brings a mix of wit, grit, and charm to the story.

3) Lucy Liu as Zoe Harlow

Lucy Liu has long been known for her performances in Kill Bill, Charlie’s Angels, and the TV series Elementary. In Red One, Liu steps into the role of Zoe Harlow, the head of MORA (Mythological Oversight and Restoration Authority), a secret agency that deals with mystical matters.

Zoe is quick to act when Santa’s security is breached, working with Callum and Jack to bring order back to the North Pole. Liu’s character is tough, smart, and determined, and her presence adds a strong, decisive leadership to the film’s lineup.

4) J.K. Simmons as Santa Claus

J.K. Simmons, who won an Academy Award for his role in Whiplash, is celebrated for his versatility in films like Spider-Man (as J. Jonah Jameson) and La La Land. In Red One, Simmons portrays Santa Claus, a version of Saint Nick who is not only jolly but also resilient and wise.

When Santa is kidnapped by dark forces, his disappearance sets off the main adventure, rallying characters from around the North Pole to save him. Simmons’ Santa is a unique blend of warmth, wisdom, and courage.

5) Kiernan Shipka as Grýla

Kiernan Shipka, known for her roles in Mad Men and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, brings a dark twist to the holiday film as Grýla, a winter witch and central antagonist in Red One. Grýla’s character has a personal vendetta that drives her to kidnap Santa and plot against Christmas.

Her role as the film’s main villain is layered and intense, as she unleashes mystical powers to disrupt the North Pole’s peace. Shipka’s portrayal of Grýla adds an eerie and suspenseful vibe to the otherwise festive setting.

6) Bonnie Hunt as Mrs. Claus

Bonnie Hunt, famous for her roles in Jumanji, Cheaper by the Dozen, and The Green Mile, plays the ever-supportive and wise Mrs. Claus. In Red One, Mrs. Claus isn’t just a background character.

She’s pivotal in rallying the North Pole’s inhabitants when Santa is taken captive. Hunt’s Mrs. Claus exudes warmth, resilience, and a sense of community, embodying the spirit of Christmas even as she faces great challenges.

7) Reinaldo Faberlle as the Voice of Agent Garcia

Actor and voice artist Reinaldo Faberlle voices Agent Garcia, an anthropomorphic polar bear who serves as a secret agent at the North Pole. Faberlle brings a light-hearted and unique energy to the film with his role as Agent Garcia, adding a hint of fun and fantasy to the team racing to save Santa.

8) Kristofer Hivju as Krampus

Kristofer Hivju, recognizable from Game of Thrones and The Fate of the Furious, plays Krampus, Santa’s estranged and mischievous brother. As an ally-turned-adversary, Krampus has a complicated relationship with Santa, and his role in the story weaves in both tension and humor.

Hivju’s Krampus adds a supernatural thrill, giving the film a blend of holiday folklore and adventure.

9) Nick Kroll as Ted

Nick Kroll, known for his comedic roles in Big Mouth and The League, takes on the character Ted in Red One. Though details about Ted’s involvement are limited, Kroll’s presence suggests a humorous twist, likely adding levity to the action-packed storyline. His character is anticipated to bring an extra dash of comedy to the film.

The supporting cast includes:

Wesley Kimmel as Dylan
Mary Elizabeth Ellis as Olivia
Marc Evan Jackson as Uncle Rick
Jenna Kanell as Krampus Guest

What is Red One about?

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Red One unfolds as Santa Claus faces a crisis on Christmas Eve. Callum Drift, Santa’s security head, learns that Santa has been abducted and is forced to work with Jack O’Malley, a hacker with inside knowledge.

Together, they dive into a world filled with magical threats, including the witch Grýla and Santa’s estranged brother, Krampus. As Callum and Jack team up to save Santa, they’re not only fighting for one man but for the spirit of Christmas itself.

Interested viewers can watch Red One on Apple TV+.

Edited by Prem Deshpande