"Extraction" is a direct adaptation of the 2014 graphic novel "Ciudad." The novel is penned by Ande Parks, Joe Russo, and Anthony Russo. The two brothers later went on to produce the Netflix adaptation of their graphic novel. Joe, meanwhile, is also responsible for penning "Extraction" and the sequel's script. In an interview with Polygon, Joe Russo explained why the graphic novel was brought to the big screen. The writer and producer said that "Extraction's" immersive and visceral action sequences simply couldn't be replicated on pages. "You can't get that compulsive narrative that viscera can't get that but you can certainly tell a visual story, but you can't convey that level of immediate intensity," he discussed.
While "Extraction" and "Ciudad" both feature a similar narrative, there are major differences between the two. Perhaps the biggest change is the setting. "Ciudad" takes place in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay. "Extraction," meanwhile, was set in the bustling city of Dhaka, Bangladesh.In "Ciudad," Rake is rescuing a young Brazilian girl, while in the film he's seen helping a Bangladeshi boy.
Of course, "Ciudad" never spawned a sequel, unlike the film adaptation. However, at one point, a more authentic version of "Ciudad" was meant to hit the big screen. A 2012 report from Variety reveals that Dwayne Johnson was once attached for the lead role in "Ciudad." The report also suggests that The Russo Brothers were once on board to direct the film, though that iteration of the film never manifested.
