Extraction is a high-octane action thriller film released on Netflix in 2020. Directed by Sam Hargrave in his directorial debut and produced by the Russo brothers (Anthony and Joe Russo), the movie quickly gained attention for its intense action sequences and gripping storyline.

The film follows Tyler Rake (played by Chris Hemsworth), a fearless black-market mercenary with a haunted past. Rake is offered a chance at redemption when he is tasked with rescuing Ovi Mahajan Jr. (Rudhraksh Jaiswal), the teenage son of an imprisoned international crime lord, from a notorious drug lord in Dhaka, Bangladesh. As Rake navigates the perilous underworld of weapons dealers and traffickers, he forms a bond with Ovi, leading to profound personal revelations and a relentless pursuit for survival against overwhelming odds.

Upon its release on April 24, 2020, Extraction became one of Netflix’s most-watched original films, amassing millions of views within the first month. Critics generally praised the film for its adrenaline-pumping action sequences and Hemsworth’s performance. However, some pointed out that the plot and character development were somewhat lacking compared to the film’s action elements.

Rotten Tomatoes: Extraction holds an approval rating of around 67%, with the consensus highlighting its action but noting the thin plot.

Due to its popularity, Netflix announced a sequel titled Extraction 2, with Chris Hemsworth reprising his role as Tyler Rake. The sequel aims to delve deeper into Rake’s backstory and explore new challenges and adversaries.

Extraction is characterized by its relentless pacing, minimal dialogue, and focus on visceral action. The film explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the personal cost of violence. Its visual style employs tight framing and dynamic camera movements to immerse the audience in the chaotic environment of Dhaka’s criminal underworld.

Extraction stands out in the action genre for its high-stakes narrative and effective execution of complex action scenes. While it may not break new ground in storytelling, its entertainment value and Chris Hemsworth’s compelling portrayal of a tormented mercenary have cemented its place as a notable entry in modern action cinema.