Now
normally, any film series that has survived for six entries has been relegated
to home media status and the Wal-Mart bargain bin, but with the surprise
success of 2011’s Fast Five, Vin
Diesel’s street racing franchise was given a fresh shot of adrenaline. Actively borrowing notes from the crime caper
and ensemble genres, Fast Five
redefined the series, introduced perpetual crowd-pleaser Dwayne Johnson, and
primed its follow-up chapter for huge levels of success. And as if there weren’t enough familiar faces
around, longtime fans were ecstatic to learn that Michelle Rodriguez was
returning, while there was a heavy level of optimism concerning the inclusion
of Gina Carano and Luke Evans. With
plenty of trailers and television spots featuring ridiculous levels of action
set against an upbeat and memorable soundtrack, anticipation for one of
Hollywood’s most profitable properties was absolutely skyrocketing. Given the reputation of its predecessor,
early critical reaction, the insane international appeal of the franchise, and
growing buzz that plans were already in motion for a SEVENTH installment, Fast & Furious 6 was expected to be
nothing short of an absolute goldmine.
Funny, exciting, energetic, and wisely returning to
previous chapters in order to give fans a nostalgic boost, Fast & Furious 6 is easily one of the most purely entertaining
films of the year, one showing that the racing juggernaut has no intention of
slowing down. Seeing the entire
returning cast come together again is akin to welcoming back old friends, and
with each getting fair screen time and development alongside a new dynamic with
Dwayne Johnson, things are kept from getting stale. As for the new additions, Rodriguez brings
back wonderful memories of the original while Carano finally proves that she
belongs in movies, but the biggest surprise is Luke Evans as the charismatic and
meticulous villain our heroes are chasing.
Yes, a few jokes fall flat and an even higher suspension of disbelief is
required for some of the stunts, but for each foul ball there are at least five home runs. In the end, whether you are
casual fan or hardcore fanatic, Fast
& Furious 6 is ridiculously enjoyable, and I cannot wait for the next
chapter.
Overall
Recommendation: Very High
