Running Time: 137 min
Directors: James Wan
Starring: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker (†), Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Ludacris, Jordana Brewster, Nathalie Emmanuel, Kurt Russel, Tony Jaa, Jason Statham
It was a very bitter irony when "Fast & Furious" star Paul Walker died in a car crash in November 2013. The actor known for his generosity and charity work was in the middle of shooting this very film when he passed and so production was stopped to allow Universal Studios to discuss the future of the project with his family. They decided to simulate Walker's appearance with the help of his brothers Caleb and Cody as well as the famous visual effects team of Weta Digital, and finish the now slightly rewritten film in honor of his memory.
"Furious 7" gives you exactly what you expect from a film of the franchise: Fast cars, ludicrous action, cheesy one-liners and a sea of testosterone. No more, and certainly no less. Of course once again you have to accept that skin is steel, cars are magic and the laws of physics are more of a loose concept, but if you are able to do that you are in for some ridiculous action and grand scale visuals.
Story-wise however the movie is a little convoluted. It feels like there are two different storylines going on that don't really mix together. As a result, Jason Statham is kind of wasted as a villain. The plot just randomly gets our heroes from A to B, and instead of being the main focus Statham just pops up here and there trying to kill them, until he fails and disappears for another 20minutes.
Furthermore, you can tell that this is James Wan's first action film, as the way he films fist fights is a little to quick and with some unusual artistic choices. Especially Statham and Tony Jaa are actually able to do all the crazy fighting themselves, but due to the editing it looks like it could also have been a stunt double.
Nonetheless, they also do a lot of car stunts in this movie... and they are pretty damn awesome. Cars flying through building or skydiving out of a plane just make you laugh in excitement and are most likely the reason you bought your movie ticket in the first place.
Also the ending really gets you as the film pays great tribute to Walker and does such a fantastic job at honoring him that you can't help but get chocked up just before the end credits roll.
All in all, "Furious 7" is a worthy entry in one of the most lovable dumb action franchises. If you're a fan of the previous films you will most certainly not be disappointed, if you were on the fence though, this will not be the film to win you over. Turn your brain off and get ready for pure and simple entertainment!
For Fans Of:
Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
Fast Five (2011)
Need for Speed (2014)
Death Race (2008)
Click Here To Watch Trailer!
