EXTINCTION 2018
“Extinction,” released in 2018, is a science fiction thriller directed by Ben Young. The film stars Michael Peña, Lizzy Caplan, and Israel Broussard.
The story follows Peter (Michael Peña), a factory worker who begins to experience recurring nightmares of a devastating alien invasion. These nightmares are vivid and unsettling, affecting his personal and professional life. His wife, Alice (Lizzy Caplan), and their two daughters become increasingly concerned about his mental state as he struggles to make sense of his visions.
As Peter’s dreams become more intense and frequent, he starts to believe they might be premonitions. His fears are realized when a massive alien force attacks Earth, causing widespread destruction and chaos. The family must band together to survive as the invasion unfolds.
During the invasion, Peter’s latent abilities and instincts come to the forefront, helping them navigate the perilous situation. As they fight for survival, they uncover shocking truths about the nature of the invasion, their past, and the true purpose of the aliens.
The film’s major twist reveals that the “aliens” are actually humans who have returned to reclaim Earth from synthetic beings, including Peter and his family, who were originally designed to replace humanity. This revelation challenges the characters’ understanding of identity and humanity, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.
“Extinction” explores themes of survival, family, and the blurred lines between human and artificial life. The film combines intense action sequences with psychological and emotional elements, keeping viewers engaged as the mystery unravels.
Despite its intriguing premise and surprising twist, “Extinction” received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film’s ambition and the performance of Michael Peña, while others felt the execution was lacking and the pacing uneven. The film’s blend of sci-fi and thriller elements, along with its thought-provoking themes, makes it an interesting watch for fans of the genre.
Overall, “Extinction” offers a unique take on the alien invasion trope, with its twist on identity and the nature of humanity, providing a fresh perspective in the realm of science fiction.
