Extreme Measures

Starring: Hugh Grant, Gene Hackman, Sarah Jessica Parker, David Morse, Bill Nunn, Paul Guilfoyle, Debra Monk, J.K. Simmons
Directed by: Michael Apted
Rating: R
Genre: Drama, Thriller
1996

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A doctor (Hugh Grant) stumbles upon a conspiracy when one of his patients mysteriously dies. Despite warnings to let it go, he continues searching for the truth and discovers an unspeakable, deadly secret.

Review:

Tim: I really believe Extreme Measures is a very underrated movie. No, this isn't a classic, but it is a solid, entertaining thriller. I enjoy medical thrillers, and believe there are too few of them made in Hollywood today. Their very nature is different and interesting, and I like the subgenre. This film presents us with a decent mystery, and keeps us guessing thoughout the film.

The story itself is pretty interesting. Yes, it's easy to look at this film as a bit far-fetched. However, I really believe there are some fascinating underlying themes that can be pretty powerful. This film addresses some big issues- like how much harm can be done in an effort to help people? Is it really the good of the many that outweighs the good of the few? Morality questions abound in this film, and while the "right" choice may seem obvious, in reality, things are never as easy as they appear.

The cast is actually pretty good. I really liked seeing Hugh Grant in a non-bumbling, charismatic, romantic role. I know audiences didn't want to see him in a thriller (and might be one of the reasons why they stayed away from this film), but I love that he was trying something new. I believe he makes a convincing doctor. He certainly has the intelligence to pull off the role (I'm not going to comment on his disgraceful running form). I think Grant should have pursued more of these different roles, but unfortunately, he was typecast and doesn't seem able to break the mold.

Gene Hackman is pretty decent, and he does a get a few chances to showcase his acting talent. I thought he was a good foil for Grant, although I desperately wish they had more screen time together. Their scenes are far too short. Sarah Jessica Parker was good. I don't like her, but she was good enough so that I don't have any complaints. I was glad to see David Morse here. He's a very underrated actor, and his presence here really improves the movie. He is memorable.

This film works because it is interesting and keeps a quick pace. There is a real mystery at the heart of this film, and that mystery keeps the audience engaged. Yes, there are some plot holes and the story itself is a bit too easy to dismiss. This is definitely a movie that requires some suspension of disbelief. And yet, there are some good aspects to this film as well. It is entertaining, occasionally thrilling, and offers up some good twists. The one big twist near (but not at) the end was compelling and reengaged me in the story.

Extreme Measures is a lightweight film, to be sure. However, I really believe critics and audiences were far too harsh on this movie. It is underrated- this is actually a pretty decent, entertaining thriller. As I mentioned, I enjoy medical thrillers, and this one did just enough right to keep me satisfied.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Instinct, Runaway Jury