Extract, a word described as "a solution or preparation containing
the active principles of a drug". "Extract" the movie starring Jason
Bateman, opened yesterday with movie goers interested if Mike Judge
prepared "his" solution well. Mike Judge who is a known for being a
driving force in creating "Beavis & Butt-Head" (MTV, 1993-97) - and
also the modern film classic, "Office Space" opened this comedy with
great comedic characters; Some believable some not. Joel, (Jason Bateman) your average self made inventor of an extract company, has a bored wife, (Kristen Wiig) and a buddy who runs the local bar (Ben Affleck). Work at the extract company becomes heated when a chain of events look to destroy Joels' money making buyout of his company. Adding to the mixture is the insanely funny David Koechner who plays the world's most annoying neighbor.
Ben Affleck lacks any form of a strong presence in his role of the drug pushing bar tender. His greasy hair and beard try to mask who he really is. Kristen Wiig's character seemed boring for me and did nothing for the film. The best moments are scenes with Bateman and Koechner by far. The mixture has drug related situations causing activities and influence Joel to make decisions he wouldn't normally make. A special active ingredient was Gene Simmons as the cut throat Joe Adler, a lawyer making waves for Joel along with an injured worker (Cliffton Collins Jr.). Add a touch of illegal behavior and a gigolo and the mixture is done.
Judge did his part in creating an entertaining film. Was it the best cookies and cream I've ever tasted? I'd say no. But it did taste good and I wouldn't mind having another.
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