Extraction (2020), Dir Sam Hargrave, Netflix: 4****: Matthew Alicoon
Extraction (2020), 4****
Dir Sam Hargraves
Netflix
Running Time: 117 minutes
Review: Matthew Alicoon, Monday 18th May, 2020
Extraction follows a black-market mercenary Tyler Rake (Played by Chris Hemsworth) who is hired to rescue the kidnapped son of an imprisoned international crime lord. Extraction is a film that holds up as a superb piece of escapism and is one of the best action films made by Netflix, as well as being one of Chris Hemsworth’s finest films.
The story brought an extremely personal aspect to the film due to the reasoning behind the mission and it was a well written inclusion by Joe Russo. This was also stunt coordinator Sam Hargrave’s directorial debut and bringing his experience to this film was evident as the action sequences were seamless and incredibly well filmed.
The best action sequence was definitely the 12 minute one take shot during the film’s first act which managed to include an insane car chase with some brilliant choreography. The 12-minute sequence is arguably one of the best action sequences in history. Also, the final act was very emotional accompanied by a brilliant score from Henry Jackman and Alex Belcher.
However, the film could have explored more of the backstories of the crime lords in the film, as most of the focus was on Hemsworth’s character. Also, the ending was too open to interpretation and with this kind of film it is not necessarily needed, as Extraction works as a solid standalone action film and it is hard to see how a sequel to Extraction could be done. However, due to the combination of Sam Hargrave’s superb construction of the action sequences along with a strong lead performance from Hemsworth, Extraction is a very intense but highly entertaining viewing.