Furious Seven

 Since 2001, the “Fast and the Furious” franchise has set itself into place for modern movie goers. Yeah, the first four weren't really something to write home about, but around the time number five hit, “Fast Five,” everything changed. It went from being drag race action films, to a mix between “Mission Impossible,” “The Expendables,” and “Ocean's Eleven,” and it was pretty damn good. The sixth film did much of that was well, only it added ten times what it did in terms of action and excitement, as well as one of my favorite films of 2013.

Work on the seventh film, however, was not as easy as the previous ones were. In late 2013, one of the main cast members, Paul Walker who played Brian O'Connor, had tragically died in a car accident. Because of this, production stalled, re-writes were in being made, and the film was pushed from Summer of 2014 to April of 2015. It was also confirmed that instead of killing of Brian O'Connor, which by the way would have been incredibly tasteless, they simply said they would retire his character.

I got to see the film opening night with my college friends in celebration for my birthday, and let me say, it was a worthwhile watch.

After the events of “Fast and the Furious 6,” Dominic Toretto and the gang are now targets of Deckard Shaw, the brother of Owen Shaw, after finding out that Han was killed. If they wish to catch Deckard, Toretto and the gang are recruited by Mr. Nobody to find a device called “God's Eye” and its creator, Ramsey, from the mercenary, Jakande. However, things turn sour for the gang, as not only are they being hunted by Deckard, but they also have to deal with Jakande as well. It's a game of cat and mouse, and it's a matter of who will come out on top as the cat. While the story is a bit more complex than the rest of the films, it doesn't stop the film from what it truly is. A fun action film with exciting car chases, which has now added a bit of espionage to it, so if that's what you're looking for, then you've got the right idea in mind.

The returning cast members of previous films do a great job here, so let's focus in on some of the new members. Jason Statham as Deckard was pretty damn good for what he has. His character may be the cold blooded hunter seeking revenge, but Statham manages to handle that very well, and I can definitely see why he's got a good future as one of this generations iconic stars. Then we have Kurt Russell as Mr. Nobody, the man who requires Toretto to retrieve “God's Eye” is good too. While I did love seeing Kurt Russell back in action, I would have loved to have seen more of him. But for what we did get, I was fine with. Then we get to Djimon Hounsou as Jakande, and Tony Jaa as his right hand man, Kiet. The two really do make for some memorable moments, especially with Jaa, as he fights with Brian O'Connor in the film. Those scenes made for some really intense moments. Also, Jakande has possibly one of the best ways to go out dying. No spoilers.

After four films straight being directed by Justin Lin, this time the film was directed by James Wan, the director of “The Conjuring” and “Saw.” While the film may not have the best action of the franchise, it's still fun and exciting. I can also say that it definitely has the most heart out of all of them. For the cast and crew, this was a passion project that they really wanted to see the light of day for their fallen friend. Paul Walker may not have been the best actor, but you can tell from the interviews with cast members afterwards that he seemed like one of the nicest people you could have ever met. With how strong his friendship was with Vin Diesel, it makes you believe that they would stick up for each other, even if it was for the tiniest little annoyance.

The ending of the film, with it's big climax and resolution, is one of the most memorable that I've seen this year. The action was big, ridiculous, and results in one of the most touching tributes you'll ever witness. Everyone's probably seen the video online, but I think it's well deserved. I don't know if the film WILL get the Best Picture Oscar next Spring as Vin Diesel hopes, or even be nominated, but I have a feeling the song played at the end will certainly get nominated. While it is a rap song, “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth is a very touching song that not only reaches out to those who were fans of Paul Walker, but it also doubles as a song for those reminiscing loved ones they've lost. It is a tough part of life, but that doesn't mean they're completely forgotten or not there with you in spirit. For a film series like this, you'd never expect it to have this much heart to begin with...also, let me just say that I'm glad the song is topping charts and kicking “Uptown Funk” in the ass...seriously, “Uptown Funk” is overrated.

Overall, “Furious Seven” is a film I'm glad I got to see. Might not be my favorite of the series, but for the amount of heart, passion, and over-the-top fun it has, I would say it's the best. This chapter has come to an end, and now it's time to find a new one.

Thanks for everything, Paul. Rest in Peace.

Rating: 10/10