Movie review: Extraction

While transporting a government weapon, veteran CIA operative Leonard is kidnapped by terrorists with a global agenda. But when his CIA analyst son realizes there is no plan for his rescue, he sets out on his own secret mission.

Bruce Willis (Leonard), Kellan Lutz (Harry), Gina Carano (Victoria), D.B. Sweeney (Robertson), Joshua Mikel (Drake), Steve Coulter (Sitterson), Dan Vilzerian (Higgins), Heather Johansen (Stevens), Christopher Bowen (Purvis).

Extraction launches with Leonard's kidnapping, immediately putting us into the main plot of the film. The story then takes a step back with character introductions and some backstory. Finding our way back to the main plot, the action picks up and things move at a good pace through the end of the film. While this one sounds good on the surface, the plot is fairly well worn and doesn't bring much, if anything, to the genre.

Acting was decent with Willis delivering solidly while finally letting someone else be the action hero. Lutz delivered nicely with solid energy and emotion. Carano was lovely and brought a much needed element to the film. Sweeney and the remainder of the supporting cast were enjoyable.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds all felt very nicely done and the film obviously had a fair budget. Action scenes were numerous and nicely done throughout. Dialogue had fair depth and consistency. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Overall Extraction may not be the most original or enthusiastic action flick, but the story is entertaining, the acting good, and technical work enjoyable. Fans of Willis, Lutz, or the genre should enjoy this one.

With some mild nudity, sexuality, plenty of violence, and colorful foul language, this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 3.4.17
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Crime Action, Action & Adventure, Action Thriller, Crime Thriller, Espionage

copyright ©2017 Dave Riedel