Synopsis: In Fast and Furious, Dom and Brian must work together to take down a corrupt drug lord who is using drivers to smuggle across the Mexican border while avenging one of their own’s murder.
Release Date: April 3, 2009 MPAA Rating: PG-13
Genre(s): Action
Film Review
Production
Fast and Furious would have been better had it stuck to what it is, an action movie, and not tried to dive heavily into drama and the solving of a crime. It is not terrible to watch as it has its moments of fun and excitement but overall it just barely delivers on its expectations. Plus, it does not have that one line to remember the hero by; a sad oversight on behalf of the screenwriter.
Chemistry
What really holds this film together is the chemistry between Dom (Diesel) and Brian (Walker). There is one scene in the film that truly accentuates how well these two men work on screen together. They are seated together, drinks in hand, and discussing how they know each other to another character. The way they look at each other and smirk as if they know a secret no one else does is perfect buddy movie material. They may play opposites on screen and never actually admit to liking each other but they work so well together playing their cat and mouse games the viewer has no choice but to revel in the fun.
Action Sequences
Given the premise os Fast and Furious you expect to see lots of action involving fast cars and narrow escapes. It does deliver but on a small scale. The action is scattered throughout and the film relies too heavily on story and plot. Therefore neglecting to give the audience a large dose of what they want to see, action. When you do get the car races and chases they are fun to experience but nothing extraordinary. The physical stunts and driving are top-notch though and should be commended for how well they are performed and captured by the camera.
Comedy Factor
A hidden gem in Fast and Furious is the subtle humor and one-liners throughout. Whether it is Vin Diesel (Dom) staring into the camera delivering a line that can only be responded to with laughter due to its blatant ridiculousness; or Paul Walker (Brian) trying ever so hard to be serious at FBI Headquarters with other agents, you are sure to find yourself laughing out loud throughout the film. For a moment you may even think the actors are trying to be funny and not take themselves or the film to seriously; a welcome change-up for this genre.
Cast and Crew
- Director(s): Justin Lin
- Producer(s): Chris Morgan
- Screenwriter(s): Vin Diesel (Dominic Toretto), Paul Walker (Brian O’Conner), Jordana Brewster (Mia Toretto), Michelle Rodriguez (Letty)
- Editor(s): Fred Raskin, Christian Wagner
- Cinematographer: Brian Tyler
- Country Of Origin: USA
