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Fast and the Furious, The (2001)

Diesel explaining "the way of the racer" "All I want is a hug... anyone?"

Shawn

JB (reaching for)

Shawn: The title of the movie is definitely an understatement. If I were to describe this movie in critic lingo, I'd say the movie "shifts into high gear and doesn't look back," or that you'll have to "buckle up for one hell of a wild ride." We join Paul Walker (who sounds exactly like Point Break Keanu Reeves) into the sport/hobby/crime of street racing. Naturally, he's really an undercover cop trying to get into the "rice rocket" world to uncover a string of highway robberies, pulled off with high performance cars. He eventually gets too close, and has to decide between his friendship and his job. The story isn't that impressive - it's been done before - but the incredible stunts in this movie are truly awesome. The stunts, joined by the cool looking cars, their thunderous roars, the beautiful women, and the loud techno/rap music, really make this movie a fun ride. If you like fast cars and the feeling of speed, you'll love this movie. Definitely smokes Gone in 60 Seconds at the starting line.

JB: I can’t tell if you’re reviewing this movie, or plugging it. I’ve seen better stunts, I’ve seen hotter women, and I’ve certainly seen better acting. Vin Diesel is, however, quite commanding, and overshadows the rest of the dumbfounded cast (dumbfounded because they can’t understand their lines... or perhaps because they’re horrible). Nevertheless, I was entertained when they weren’t trying to build flimsy relationships between the characters. Makes you want to crank up the heat in a leather-seated car and just let yourself sweat. You want Speed? Watch Speed. You want good car chases? Watch Ronin. You want Jordana Brewster, tough... but you can at least watch this. I'll give it three stars because I know Shawn's getting a pay-off and I want in.

Shawn: Can I help it if I like fast, flashy cars? This movie just appeals to my simple minded, thrill seeking teenage years. And I think every adult, young adult and teenager should go buy or rent this movie. I'm sure that you'll all love it. And buy it for your friends and family members too. And what's this about being on the take? What an absurd allegation!


BEST VIOLATION OF THE VERBAL MORALE: Any use of the word "bustah" (or buster, I suppose).

BEST TIME TO TAKE A LEAK: During the first fistfight, or should I say, tackle Paul Walker extravaganza (Hey Paul, maybe you should move out of the way next time).

BEST USE OF SPECIAL EFFECTS: Vin Diesel's Biceps.

 

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Credits:
Director:
Rob Cohen
Producer:
Neal H. Moritz
Screenplay:
Gary Scott Thompson, Erik Berquist, David Ayer
Music By:
BT
Director of Photography:
Ericson Core
Cast:
Paul Walker
Vin Diesel
Michelle Rodriguez
Jordana Brewster
Rick Yune
Chad Lindberg
Johnny Strong
Ted Levine