I love the Fast and the Furious franchise. Yes, they are loud, dumb films that grow increasingly ridiculous with each installment, but they are supremely entertaining. They’re like American versions of Kung Fu films (but with muscle cars) full of crazy, over-the-top stunt work. And you have Vin Diesel spouting with gravel-voiced intensity, “no one messes with my family,” every 15 minutes. What’s not to like?
After helping revive the post-pandemic box office two years ago with F:9: The Fast Saga, the gang returns for Fast X. Sadly, there was behind-the-scenes drama with original director Justin Lin quitting the project just a week into filming. So, directing reigns were handed to Louis Leterrier, best known for helming the underwhelming MCU pic The Incredible Hulk. This is billed as the first of a two-part series finale. But if these two films continue the franchise’s money-making prowess, don’t bet on it.
The nearly 4-minute trailer shows the film won’t be straying too far from the franchise’s history of exotic locales (Rome!) and dazzling gravity-defying action sequences. That shot of Toretto’s Dodge Charger taking down two helicopters is particularly impressive. The already large cast led by Vin Diesel and Michelle Rodriguez is joined by Rita Moreno as the Toretto matriarch and Oscar winner Brie Larson playing a mysterious character called Tess. We also have John Cena and Jason Statham continuing the tradition of former villains returning as additions to the ever-growing “family.” And yes, that’s both Helen Mirren and Charlize Theron making their presence felt in what looks like quick cameos.
The big bad is played by the charismatic Jason Momoa, chewing the scenery, and is a perfect fit for this crazy franchise. His villainous Dante is seeking revenge on Dom and his family for the events during the bonkers finale of Fast Five in Brazil. But no one watches these movies for their complex plotting. From the looks of this trailer, Fast X is sticking to its patented muscle car-loving formula.
Fast X opens in theatres on May 19, 2023. Check out the trailer below and let me know your thoughts in the comments section.
I came in late to this franchise but have loved it ever since my arrival. First one I saw was Fast Five, but since that time I’ve seen each entry multiple times. I totally get those who feel it has “jumped the shark” with cars in outer space, but I will defend these films’ honor as being wonderful escapist fare with heart. I think Momoa is a big “get” for this latest entry, and I’ll be there when it opens.
I completely agree. I returned to the franchise with number 4 and have loved them ever since. The franchise doesn’t pretend to be high art and embraces its escapist, blockbuster status, laws of physics be damned.