Synopsis: Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his family have outsmarted, out-nerved and outdriven every foe in their path. Now, they confront the most lethal opponent they’ve ever faced: A terrifying threat emerging from the shadows of the past who’s fueled by blood revenge, and who is determined to shatter this family and destroy everything—and everyone—that Dom loves, forever
Life is oftentimes greyer than it is black or white. Therefore, almost every action or instance is a matter of perspective. And that is immensely terrifying because people can and will justify or rationalize any despicable act, even when it’s objectively clear that it was done maliciously. Moreover, what’s worse is that those with varying levels of power, an abundance of money, and an axe to grind, can influence perspective. They will lie, create narratives, and falsify numbers in order to manipulate their point of view to gain sympathy and support. For instance, it’s easy to paint Negan as a villain on TWD when the show is from the point of view of Rick Grimes and company. However, if it were flipped, the infamous Lucille scene may feel more appropriate. Nevertheless, we should be able to know evil when we see it, but unfortunately, it seems to be the status quo.
“Make Toretto suffer.”
This may be the Fast Family’s tenth installment but that X means abundantly more and they’ll all know sooner than they’d like to. Directed by Louis Leterrier, Fast X is relentlessly entertaining. This film is nonstop on multiple levels. There’s nonstop action, nonstop drama, and damn-near nonstop laughs. It is the best installment since the fifth one. Beginning 10 years in the past as Dom Toretto and his family heist millions from Hernan Reyes in Fast 5, these actions have deadly consequences. Not only did the destructive safe chase result in the death of Reyes, but it awakened a vengeful Devil that they never see coming. We soon realize that Toretto isn’t the only one that values family, but now his loved ones have the biggest target on their back yet. Chaos and destruction are around every corner and while death is knocking on Dom’s door, he might have to watch his family die first. Dom and his 70’s charger will be put to the ultimate test. Franchise fans will not be disappointed.
“The enemy of my enemy is you.”
This film does exactly what it set out to do, and that is to entertain you into a state of action film euphoria. This film is nothing short of thrilling and exhilarating at all times. This story-driven film is more complex, action-packed, and elaborate than its predecessors. Fast X solidifies the franchise as the best action franchise of all time. As it leans into the fantastic absurdity of its physics-defying stunts and almost invincible legacy cast, how can you hate it when it knows exactly what it is? You’re going to say, “Yeah, okay.” but you know it’s coming so you should be saying, “Hell yeah!” repeatedly. This film looks great, the entire cast is beautiful, the soundtrack is bumpin’, and its twists and surprises make this one of the year’s best movie experiences. The theme of family is still present, but now so is the theme of responsibility. You’re not going to want to miss the mid-credits scene. I cant wait to see what the next film has instore for us because I was not ready for this one. Its rewatchability is high. I could’ve immediately watched it again.
Pacing & Pop
I think it goes without saying but the pacing matches the title, fast. The film is one big explosive roller coaster from start to finish. What popped for me has to be the uber-eccentric and nefariously-whimsical villain, Dante. He’s definitely going down as one of my all-time favorite bad guys.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Jason Momoa, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jordana Brewster, John Cena, Jason Statham, Sung Kang, Alan Ritchson, Daniela Melchior, Scott Eastwood, with Helen Mirren, Charlize Theron, Brie Larson and Rita Moreno
After years of working together, this cast’s chemistry is miles past effortless. Even with the current additions of Brie Larson, Daniela Melchior, Alan Richtman, and Jason Mamoa, the film never misses a beat. Vin Diesel and his crew, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jordana Brewster, Sung Kang, and now John Cena always put on high-octane, heartfelt, and hilarious performances and this go around is no different. However, Momoa without a doubt steals the show. Not only is his character, Dante the greatest villain within the franchise, but one of the best in the genre. And now that we know that there are more movies ahead, we may see more of the completely unhinged, diabolical, blood-thirsty Dante.
Fast X releases in theaters on May 19, 2023. Remain safe and take care of your family.
Rated: PG-13
Runtime: 2h 20m
Director: Louis Leterrier
Writers: Justin Lin & Dan Mazeau
Producers: Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel, Justin Lin, Jeff Kirschenbaum, Samantha Vincent
Executive Producers: Joseph M.Caracciolo, Jr., David Cain, Chris Morgan, Amanda Lewis, Mark Bomback
Director of Photography: Stephen F. Windon
Production Designer: Jan Roelfs
Editors: Dylan Highsmith, Kelly Matsumoto
Costume Designer: Sanja Milkovic Hays
Music: Brian Tyler
Fast X is relentlessly entertaining with nonstop action, nonstop drama, and damn-near nonstop laughs.
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
