Extraction II

Extraction is awesome. Extraction 2 is more awesome. I could feel it immediately. The story, characters and villain are all a step up. It's intense and suspenseful throughout.

But of course, we're here for the action. And just like the rest of the movie, it jumps a level. It's just as clear and well-shot as in the original. But it's more creative, bigger and harder. It has one of the coolest, longest and most impressive simulated one-takes I've ever seen. I was mesmerized.

The only criticism I have is that it's anticlimactic. The best action scene happens early, second best happens in the middle, and the last action scene is the smallest (but still good). Other than that, I loved this movie.

As someone who constantly trashes the inferior quality of Netflix original movies, I have to give them credit here. And as a huge fan of fight scenes and action movies, I'm ecstatic at the new levels I've seen from franchises like this and John Wick. There are still some movies with quick-cut shaky-cam fight scenes (like Snake Eyes and Mortal Kombat), but hopefully movies like Extraction can end those plagues forever. (1 viewing, 6/16/2023)

The first 45 minutes are spectacular. I was having constant goosebumps for 20 minutes straight. I was in total awe; I couldn't avoid smiling. You will not witness much better stunts and choreography (it is arguably better than that of the John Wick trilogy).

What's most impressive is the camerawork. There is a 20-minute sequence without any visible cuts that is so immersive. You will be blown away by the impressive technological achievement this crew has achieved. I could hardly believe what I was watching; helicopters landing on moving trains and cameras going in and out of windows have never been easier to follow. This is not a gimmick; it's a highly efficient tool used to make the movie highly intriguing.

The rest of the movie does sadly not live up to what the first act had to offer. It goes from an action masterpiece to another generic action-thriller by Netflix. It should honestly have ended after 50 minutes. There is no way you could top what we've just seen. The story doesn't justify the action. They are fighting -- but why? They go back and forth between each other, and at one point it gets tiresome. Just finish it up already.

Overall, a movie worth your time with some spectacular action. Don't go into this expecting a movie with substance, but rather an entertaining movie. Can't a movie be nothing more than entertaining at times? Sometimes that's enough. Good writing is however important to make the breathtaking action mean something.

Extraction 2 is an adrenaline-fueled rollercoaster ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Picking up where its predecessor left off, the film delves deeper into the life of Tyler Rake, portrayed brilliantly by Chris Hemsworth, as he embarks on another high-stakes mission.

The action sequences in Extraction 2 are a sight to behold, featuring jaw-dropping stunts and intense combat sequences. The choreography is top-notch, with every fight scene delivering a visceral and gritty experience. Hemsworth's physicality and on-screen presence make him the perfect fit for the role of Tyler Rake, bringing both vulnerability and ferocity to the character.

The film also introduces new characters who add depth and intrigue to the narrative. Randeep Hooda delivers a standout performance as Saju, a conflicted ally caught in the crossfire. His chemistry with Hemsworth adds emotional weight to their interactions, creating memorable moments throughout the film.

Director Sam Hargrave skillfully blends heart-pounding action with quieter character-driven moments, giving the audience a chance to connect with the protagonists on a deeper level. The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the gritty atmosphere and stunning locales with precision.

However, Extraction 2 falls slightly short in terms of plot development. While the action is exhilarating, the storyline feels somewhat predictable and lacks the element of surprise. Additionally, certain character arcs could have been explored further to enhance the overall depth of the narrative.

Despite these minor shortcomings, Extraction 2 is a solid action-packed sequel that delivers on its promises. With Hemsworth's powerhouse performance and Hargrave's expert direction, this film is a must-watch for action enthusiasts. Buckle up and prepare for a wild ride that will leave you craving for more.

'Extraction 2' is the kind of movie I call a "time-killer". Say you have 2 hours until a dinner you're looking forward to and you want the time to pass quickly, you put on 'Extraction 2' and before you know it it's time for dinner. You then proceed to never think about the film again for the rest of your life, because there is absolutely nothing memorable about it. There's no problem with these types of movies, we need them. But you can't get angry at people finding them instantly forgettable. There's no true emotional depth to them, try as they may.

It is worth noting that there is an incredible "single-take" scene early in this film that was done phenomenally well. The work that must've gone into pulling it off, I can't even imagine. It's the highlight of the movie by a comfortable margin. The only problem I find with these scenes is that it takes me about 6 minutes to click onto the fact I'm watching a "single-take".

The film has a decent villain and the pacing is pretty good. It's an above average action movie and worth your time for sure if this is your kind of thing. 7/10.

Every once in a while, you come across a movie like "Extraction" that not only exceeds your expectations, but takes you on a satisfying, heart-pounding thrill-ride. Then you hope they make a sequel. Then you are elated to discover that a sequel has been greenlit and put into production. Then there is the apprehension on whether or not it will live up to the expectations of the predecessor. Then, "Extraction 2" is released, and let me assure you that any doubts or fears of whether this sequel can hold a candle to the original are quickly extinguished. This action-packed, high-octane follow-up not only reaches the heights of the original, it blows it out of the water.

Grab your drinks and snacks, switch off all mobile devices and make sure your seatbacks are secured in the upright position, as this film will have you on the edge of your seat!

The film opens with a brief rollback of the previous film with Rake, dying of his injuries, taking a reverse swan dive off a motor bridge in Bangladesh. Then after a period of time convalescing, is put back into what Rake does best...extracting! His mission is to extract the wife and children out from a maximum security Georgian prison from under the nose of a powerful imprisoned gangster. What ensues is a kinetic, explosive rollercoaster ride on planes, trains, automobiles, elevators, choppers, all with spent shell casings trailing.

The hand-to-hand combat in this flick is brutally entertaining. The weaponry would make any gun enthusiast salivate. The car-chase sequences are nothing short of spectacular. The cinematography is absolutely jaw-dropping, and moments of Hemsworth's dry Aussie humour and charm will want to make anyone want to visit the land down under!

A big shout out to the dynamite Golshifteh Farahani and the slick Adam Bessa for reprising the roles of sibling team, Nik and Yaz. The chemistry between Farahani and Bessa with Hemsworth really shines through, and have audiences truly invested in their characters. A salute to director Sam Hargrave for another hard-hitting action flick and a big thanks for the "Thor" easter egg!

What makes this film great is that it has steered clear away from identity politics, meeting minority quotas, and trying to indoctrinate an audience with ideologies. The story itself may be thin, but sure as hell makes up for it in entertainment. Extraction 2 harkens back to a time where movies were made to entertain, and to allow the audience to take from it a great story, a thrill, catharsis, or be simply lost for words apart from "Wow!" Take note, Hollywood. THIS is how movies are to be made. Which begs the question: "When are they making Extraction 3?"