Fast X is what it is, and that is an absurdly fun popcorn movie, a silly entertaining sequel (The Fast & the Furious) that offers more of the same.
It’s a film that somehow finds new and fabulously ludicrous things to do with cars, and is certainly a must-watch for any diehard fan of the franchise, spinning through enjoyably goofy action set pieces, enlivened greatly by a fun performance from actor Jason Momoa.
Over many missions, films and against impossible odds, the Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) character 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 fuelled by blood revenge, and determined to shatter this family and destroy everything and everyone who Dom loves, forever.
Overall, Fast X is a solid action flick, pulling out all the stops from car chases, explosions, aircraft and some intense and lengthy fight sequences. And as irredeemably silly as it is satisfyingly self-aware, Fast X should rev the engines of longtime fans. Diesel has revealed that this is the start of a franchise-ending trilogy.
This is what summer movies should be! It's spectacular! It's thrilling! And it's the kind of movie you can't wait to yammer about to your friends.
Fast X, rated PG, plays at the Patricia Theatre from June 9 to 15, with a matinee on Sunday, June 11, at 1:30 pm. Running time is two hours and 17 minutes.
Gary Shilling is executive director of qathet Film Society.
