Yeah, okay, I know, I’m not off to a good start with that headline. I felt sick as I wrote it, and now as I write about writing it. Oh well. Moving on.
Our first film without Paul Walker. His absence was felt, let me just put that out there. I know this franchise has become more of a “Vin Diesel” and “Dwayne Johnson” vehicle, as of late, but I remember the first one. Paul was the only star I knew then, and thought he really brought credibility to the film. Of course, since then, each of the actors that have remained have grown in their own right.
The new ones that come in also stand out and have their own role to play. Pun intended. But, Paul’s character, Brian, is sorely missed.
That being said, there is still plenty to take away from here. Allow me to share with you what I thought of this film once the credits started to roll.
It is definitely worth your time, and a solid entry in the franchise. If you are a fan, it is one you do not want to miss. But, beware, as I alluded to earlier, it is not the same as it used to be.
Given the evolution of the franchise, and the death of Paul Walker, I was left wondering where this story could go. This film answered just that. It picks up after the events of the last one, and in my mind, one of the best of the series, and gives us more to the story. Of course, by the end of the film, you’re left wondering again, what are they going to do next? Yes, a sequel is clearly in the cards and possibly a spinoff too. But, I’m getting ahead of myself.
For me, Charlize Theron was the star of the show. Next to her, it was Kurt Russell. I was drawn to those two whenever they were onscreen and they provided some of the best dialogue. I don’t know if the rest of the cast was just not into it, or if the writers just didn’t bring it, but the rest just fell flat.
Now, don’t get me wrong, it is still an enjoyable movie. And yes, you get exactly what you want out of a “Fast and Furious” movie, no doubt. I am again, just saying that coming off of the high that was “Furious 7”, this was not a strong follow up. That’s all.
The character of Ramsey is back, and certainly underutilized. We are introduced to “Little Nobody”, played by Scott Eastwood, who is the junior associate of Mr. Nobody. I haven’t made up my mind about him yet. I mean, he was “okay” in this first outing, but because he is the rookie and interacting with the team for the first time, they had him as sort of the ‘bumbling cop’ guy. Given the organization he works for, and that he works with Mr. Nobody, I was expecting a little more from the character.
Anyway, that’s my take on it. I suggest you still go and check it out, and make up your own mind. These are just a few of my thoughts on the film. It is certainly worth your time if you’re a fan.