Both The Rock and Chris Evans were in agreement on the rule.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, consistently ranked as one of the highest-paid actors in recent years. But behind his success, there’s one key policy on set that significantly influences who he hires for his movies.
The Rule: “No Aholes” Allowed**
When The Rock speaks about his career and the people he works with, it’s clear that he values more than just talent. During a recent promotion for his film Red One, where he stars alongside Chris Evans, The Rock revealed his no-nonsense approach to choosing who he works with. He explained that both he and his production company, Seven Bucks Productions, have a strict rule: “We don’t work with a**holes anymore.”
This policy isn’t just about avoiding difficult people on set. It’s about creating a positive, productive environment. Johnson emphasized how reputations in Hollywood often precede actors, and having heard that Chris Evans was a great guy, he was excited to work with him. The feeling was mutual, as Evans recalled their first conversation, where The Rock told him, “No aholes, no aholes,” to which Evans replied, “You know what man, that’s right up my alley.”
Both stars agreed that the vibe on set is crucial, especially when making a lighthearted film like Red One, which takes a fun approach to the Christmas season. The film features Johnson as Callum Drift, a tough operative tasked with saving Christmas, and Evans as Jack O’Malley, a quick-witted gadget expert. Together, they take on a villain played by J.K. Simmons, who threatens to ruin the holiday season.
The Importance of Positive Energy on Set
For The Rock, having a positive atmosphere on set isn’t just a preference — it’s essential. He believes that the right energy makes a huge difference in the success of the film. And Chris Evans is right there with him, agreeing that the reputation and vibe of the people on set are especially important when making a holiday movie that needs to be fun and heartwarming.
A Mixed Reception for Red One
While the movie received a lukewarm reception from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, with a disappointing 30%, it has been embraced by the general audience, who gave it a much higher score of 90%. Viewers have praised the movie for its fun, heartwarming story, which they describe as a perfect Christmas film.
One fan commented, “A different take on Santa. He’s buff. The reindeer are a bit larger than Clydesdales. It’s fun. A cool explanation of how Santa completes his task every year. Unbelievable critics… WTH?!” Another added, “It’s predictable and cheesy at times, but that’s why it’s a great Christmas movie! A funny, heartwarming story that is a must-watch at Christmas.”
Others have echoed similar sentiments, calling Red One a delightful holiday romp that delivers pure, unfiltered fun. One viewer noted, “Great Christmas movies don’t need to be profound – they just need to spread joy – and this one does just that.”
The movie offers entertainment for both kids and adults alike, and while critics might have missed the point, many viewers found it to be exactly what they needed for some festive cheer. Red One may not aim to be profound, but it sure does succeed at spreading joy.
In conclusion, while Red One might not be a critical darling, it’s clear that the positive energy on set, guided by The Rock’s “no a**holes” rule, was key to making the film enjoyable for audiences.