After a massively successful fifth entry, it was a given that another ‘Fast and Furious’ movie would surface. Like its predecessor, it discards the initial street-racing theme in favour of something different. Still having the same formula of macho men, hot chicks and fast cars, the new elements bring much needed vigour. ‘Fast and Furious 6’ is just as slick, confident and entertainingly silly as the others with the action spectacle at full throttle.
Still wanted and on the run, Dominic (Vin Diesel), Brian (Paul Walker) and their gang think they have left their old life behind. When security service agent Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) finds them, their peace is interrupted. Wanting help in bringing down dangerous gangster Owen Shaw (Luke Evans), Hobbs promises the motley crew a pardon for their crimes. Seizing the chance, they attempt to eradicate Shaw’s shady influence and settle some personal scores.
‘Fast and Furious 6’ is pure popcorn entertainment. These types of films aren’t made for critics but for audiences wanting a thought-free good time. This sixth entry perfectly fits the bill. Effectively utilising its’ established mythology for further adventures, the series’ sense of danger remains. The new cast additions aid in keeping things fresh with the regular cast having a good time amidst the many explosive incidents. It’s amazing seeing how far the franchise has progressed since its simple first foray with the pyrotechnic displays here suitably dazzling.
Justin Lin directs his fourth ‘Fast and Furious’ instalment with plenty of energy and imaginative flair. He maximises the opportunities in showing off gorgeous foreign locales during the many spectacular car races. All are amazingly staged with the mix of CGI and stunt-work well blended. Almost every scene is expressed in broad comic-book strokes although you still believe in the characters. This is perhaps the franchises’ biggest achievement – the ability to care about what happens to them despite the preposterous situations in which they find themselves.
Beyond ridiculous and extremely ludicrous, ‘Fast and Furious 6’ is still tons of fun. If you go along with the pure silliness of its story you’ll enjoy it and have enough enthusiasm left for the next inevitable instalment.
Reviewed by Patrick Moore
Rating out of 10: 7