Title: Extinction (2018)
Director: Ben Young
Writer: Spenser Cohen // Brad Kane
Studio: Good Universe // Netflix
IMDb Plot: A father has a recurring dream of losing his family. His nightmare turns into reality when the planet is invaded by a force bent on destruction. Fighting for their lives, he comes to realize an unknown strength to keep them safe from harm.
Joe Says: A by-the-books scifi-thriller that manages to remain enjoyable.
The alien invasion plot is an industry standard that is now as boilerplate as Batman’s origin and Netflix’s Extinction upholds this formula in a by-the-books scifi-thriller yet manages to present the film in a slick and entertaining way. Yes, there is a plot twist deep in the third act that is satisfying and, believe it or not, even a little surprising, which helps provide an explanation in a Marvel No-Prize sort of way for the rather stilted performance from a usually affable Michael Pena.
For all of the standardization this film brings, such as video-game quality f/x and aliens that look like extras from the set of Doctor Who, Extinction does succeed with showcasing the family dynamic during wartime. Pena’s Peter is not a macho alpha male who goes all John McClane when the bullets start a’flying, but instead pauses, and thinks; he plans on how to get his family to survive. His actions are believable and are truly what makes an average direct-release sci-fi flick all the more enjoyable.
Plus, Sweet Christmas, Luke Cage guest stars.
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