Review of Extract (2009) by Rory P — 27 Apr 2010

Nearly 2 and a half stars, probably because of Jason Bateman.

Who's just, watchable.

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Its watchable, but theres nothing to it really.

It helps that its not offensively bad, and its not stoner escapism either - it is steeped in some kind of normal flawed human reality like most Judge films are (which is admirable, I guess).

Its just not very good, or particularly funny...

Although its not straining to be that funny either.

And thats the thing, it doesn't try to be overtly funny, AND It doesn't try to compensate by applying any pretentious heft to its characterisations, instead 'Being' this weirdly translucent experience -.

Of solid actors playing flawed, barely examined* people in a working class environment...

Skirting through their lives.

With some conflict technically but nothing to get the audience in a twist over;.

...Fluid, flat, with a peaceful inner drive in Batemans presence -.

All in all it has this weird, almost serene quality to the flat crapness of it. Which makes it watchable enough, if not particularly sparkly (great review -ed).

Again Bateman makes it work, without being showy about it. - hes understated and underrated (He's worth saying that vaguely tongue twisterish statement anyway). Give this man a lead role in a decent movie.

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*Batemans wife (Kristen Wiig) is barely given a look in, even though she has a significant part to play in the story. Although the Joe/Josephine Soaps of this film are still treated in the affectionate semi mocking way that Judge films specialise in, there is generally very little effort to develop the characters in general.