Extraction (2020) Review: A High-Stakes Action Thriller with Passable Military Realism

Plot and Premise

The plot of ‘Extraction’ is straightforward and effective. Tyler Rake is hired to rescue Ovi Mahajan, the kidnapped son of an imprisoned Indian crime lord.

The mission takes Rake to Dhaka, Bangladesh, where he must navigate a city teeming with corrupt officials, ruthless gangsters, and a relentless enemy determined to prevent Ovi’s escape.

What begins as a simple extraction quickly turns into a desperate fight for survival, with Rake and Ovi facing overwhelming odds at every turn.

The film’s narrative is propelled by its simplicity. There’s no convoluted plot or unnecessary subplots — just a single, focused mission. This streamlined approach allows the film to maintain a relentless pace, keeping the audience on edge from start to finish. The stakes are clear, and the consequences of failure are immediate and deadly.

Tactical Realism and Action

‘Extraction’ stands out for its commitment to tactical realism. The use of silencers is portrayed more accurately than in most films of this genre. They suppress a weapon but don’t make it whisper silent. Also, I don’t recall any other films where weapons are tethered to operators to prevent them from being taken. Supposedly, multiple military consultants were spoken with when making this movie. Ultimately, however, filmmakers will almost always choose what looks best on screen over military realism. This is, after all, a piece of entertainment.

Directed by Sam Hargrave, a seasoned stunt coordinator, the film’s action sequences are meticulously crafted, showcasing a level of authenticity rarely seen in Hollywood. The stunts are impressive, and Hemsworth does a pretty good job of selling himself as a merc.

One of the most talked-about aspects of ‘Extraction’ is the 12-minute continuous action sequence, often referred to as a “oner.” This single shot follows Rake as he fights his way through multiple levels of a building.

He engages in hand-to-hand combat and evades enemy fire, all without a single cut. However, this is more action thriller hand to hand than the real deal. The result is an immersive, heart-pounding experience that pulls the viewer directly into the chaos of the mission.

Hemsworth’s portrayal of Rake is not just about brute strength; it’s about calculated moves, quick thinking, and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing battlefield.

The Cast and Their Roles

Chris Hemsworth delivers a standout performance as Tyler Rake. Known primarily for his role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Hemsworth brings a different kind of intensity to ‘Extraction.’

His portrayal of Rake is raw and visceral, capturing the physical and emotional toll of his line of work. Rake is a man haunted by his past, driven by a desire for redemption, and Hemsworth conveys this complexity with a performance that is both powerful and vulnerable.

Rudhraksh Jaiswal plays Ovi Mahajan, the young boy whom Rake is tasked with rescuing. Jaiswal’s performance adds a layer of innocence and vulnerability to the film, providing a stark contrast to the brutality of the world around him. The chemistry between Hemsworth and Jaiswal is one of the film’s strengths, creating an emotional core that makes the action all the more impactful.

Randeep Hooda, as Saju Rav, delivers a compelling performance as Ovi’s father’s enforcer, who is initially at odds with Rake but later becomes an unlikely ally. Hooda’s character is complex, driven by his own sense of duty and desperation to protect his family, adding depth to the narrative.

Golshifteh Farahani as Nik Khan, Rake’s handler and one of the few people he trusts, provides a strong supporting role. Her character is pragmatic, resourceful, and unflinching, balancing out Rake’s raw aggression with a level-headed approach to the mission.

Military Significance

‘Extraction’ is not just an action movie; it offers a glimpse into the world of private military contractors and the high-risk operations they undertake.

The film accurately portrays the complexities of such missions, from the planning and logistics to the execution and potential for things to go catastrophically wrong. The depiction of urban warfare, particularly in a densely populated city like Dhaka, is harrowing.

The film also touches on the psychological impact of a life spent in combat. Tyler Rake is a character shaped by loss and trauma, and his journey throughout the film reflects the struggles many veterans face when trying to reconcile their past with their present.

The film doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of war, making it a valuable watch for those interested in the psychological and physical demands of such a life.

The Action Sequences

The action in ‘Extraction’ is relentless, but it’s never mindless. Each sequence is carefully constructed to serve the story and build tension.

The film’s use of practical effects and stunt work, combined with Hargrave’s direction, results in some of the most intense action scenes in recent memory.

The standout “oner” is a testament to the film’s commitment to authenticity. The sequence, which was achieved through a combination of choreography, camera work, and seamless editing, is a masterclass in action filmmaking. It’s not just a gimmick—it’s a way to immerse the audience in the chaos and danger of Rake’s mission.

The film also excels in its portrayal of close-quarters combat. The hand-to-hand fight scenes are brutal and efficient, supposedly reflecting the real-world techniques used by military operators. Still, this is a Hollywood film where the fights are more Bourne-esque than the real deal. I don’t blame the filmmakers; they took the more visually exciting route. The gunfights are well-executed, with a focus on accuracy and the effective use of cover. Still, the protagonist goes through a lot of rounds. Suspend your disbelief a little and you’ll enjoy the scenes just fine.

Pacing and Storytelling

‘Extraction’ is a film that knows exactly what it wants to be. It doesn’t waste time with unnecessary exposition or side plots.

The narrative is tight and focused, with every scene serving to advance the story or develop the characters. The film’s pacing is relentless, but it also knows when to slow down and let the characters breathe.

The storytelling is straightforward, but that’s not a weakness. Instead, it allows the film to maintain a clear sense of purpose and direction. The simplicity of the plot serves to highlight the complexity of the action and the emotional depth of the characters.

Cinematography and Direction

Sam Hargrave’s background as a stunt coordinator is evident in every frame of ‘Extraction.’

His direction is precise, capturing the intensity of the action while never losing sight of the story. The film’s cinematography, handled by Newton Thomas Sigel, complements Hargrave’s vision. It uses a mix of handheld and steady shots to create a sense of immediacy and immersion.

The use of long takes, particularly in the “oner,” adds to the film’s visceral impact. The camera work is fluid, following the characters through tight spaces and chaotic environments. All these make the audience feel as if they are right there in the middle of the action.

Final Verdict

‘Extraction’ is more than just an action movie — it’s a raw, unfiltered look at the world of high-stakes mercenary operations. Grab a beer and some popcorn and have some fun.

The film’s attempt at showing tactical realism, combined with its intense action sequences and strong performances, make it a standout in the genre. Chris Hemsworth delivers a career-defining performance as Tyler Rake, bringing both physicality and emotional depth to the role.

For those who appreciate action and a no-nonsense approach to storytelling, ‘Extraction’ is a must-watch. It’s a film that respects its audience. It delivers on its promises while also offering a deeper, more nuanced look at the cost of a life spent in combat. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or someone with a military background, ‘Extraction’ is a film that will leave a lasting impression.

It earns a solid four out of five hand grenades from SOFREP Media.

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Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.