In modern cinema, few actors can draw large audiences merely with their names, yet fans of action genres have found a reliable star in Gerard Butler, known for consistently delivering thrilling cinematic experiences. Over the last ten years, Butler, who rose to fame with iconic roles in the late 2000s films such as “300” and “Machine Gun Preacher,” has become a favorite for viewers seeking a mix of thrilling spectacle and adventure. 

While not every one of his films strikes gold, Butler’s movies generally meet expectations, especially in today’s streaming-dominated era. A case in point is his 2023 thriller “Plane,” which, despite a lukewarm box office reception, eventually topped Netflix’s charts over two years later. This action-packed film, featuring Mike Colter from “Evil,” stands out as one of Butler’s finest, joining the ranks of hits like “Olympus Has Fallen,” “Greenland,” and “Geostorm.”

Although released during the typically unspectacular movie month of January, “Plane” exceeded the usual quality of early-year films. Despite earning just $74 million, it turned a profit due to a modest budget, proving to be an exceptional action film, even if prematurely dismissed by audiences. It has gained recognition as potentially one of the most underrated films of recent times.

In “Plane,” Butler takes on the role of Brodie Torrance, a former Scottish RAF pilot now employed by a commercial airline. During a pivotal flight from Singapore to Honolulu, a lightning strike cripples the plane’s engine, compelling Brodie to execute an emergency landing on a secluded Philippine island. Among the passengers is Louis Gaspare (Mike Colter), a former French Foreign Legion member now under police custody en route to Canada for a murder trial. As violence erupts from a band of menacing rebel terrorists, Gaspare’s skills prove essential in navigating the perilous situation Torrance, his crew, and passengers find themselves in.

Filled with intense drama, numerous action sequences, and gripping fight scenes, “Plane” may appear formulaic on the surface. However, with the refined direction of French filmmaker Jean-François Richet, the movie transcends its genre. Garnering commendations for its robust cast and exceptional action choreography, “Plane” now enjoys rising success on Netflix.

Although the film’s $74 million box office collection seems modest, it nearly tripled its $25 million budget, validating the decision to greenlight a sequel shortly after its theatrical release. Initially planned as “Ship” to maintain the one-word title motif, the sequel was eventually retitled “Plane 2: Stowaway,” aiming for broader audience appeal. 

Initially scheduled to begin production in late 2023, with Mike Colter leading the cast (that reportedly won’t include Gerard Butler), “Plane 2” was to follow Louis Gaspare’s further adventures after Torrance let him go at the end of “Plane.” Unfortunately, “Plane 2” hit stormy weather and was quickly grounded due to the dual Hollywood work stoppages that hit just before filming was to commence. After the writers’ and actors’ strikes ended, however, there was little news, until Colter provided a disappointing update in 2025.

Commenting on the difficulty of scheduling the film, Colter told Collider, “That’s a question for them moving it forward, because I got things going on. I’m sure [Gerard Butler]’s got things going on, too; he’s shooting stuff … I’d love to do the sequel, but it’s kind of in their ballpark right now.” Considering the recent success of “Plane” on Netflix, perhaps “Plane 2” will prepare for takeoff soon.