F9 an outrageous, wild ride fit for big-screen - movie review

The Fast and Furious franchise has taken audiences on a long, wild ride with 9 films in the last 20 years. I’ve been a fan of the long-running franchise as the stunts get bold, bigger and better. F9 keeps up the tradition as it takes you another wild ride.

In the film opens with a flashback scene in that takes place in 1989, where we finally meet young Dominic Toretto (Vinnie Bennett). We get to find out what was the crime that Dom committed that landed him in prison. We are also introduced to his younger brother Jakob (Finn Cole).

In present day, Dom (Vin Diesel) and Letty (Michelle Rodriguez) are living happily with Dom's infant son. Soon, members of his "family" show up, aka his crew, Roman (Tyrese Gibson) and Tej (Chris “Ludacris” Bridges) who reveal that their arch-nemesis Cypher (Charlize Theron) has returned. This means the team band back together, including Mia (Jordana Brewster) and . The real shocker comes when Jakub returns as a spy and teams up with Cypher. Dom has to make quite the choices, while dealing with his estranged brother.

F9 is in many ways ridiculous and over-the-top (cue: Pontiac Fiero car launched into space sequence), but they make it work in such a thrilling and enjoyable manner. It's that summer blockbuster movie that you just got to see and experience, especially on the big screen. The stunts and big action set pieces are bolder, taking the film to new heights. The film sticks to its formula of family, fun and fast cars, and it works every time.

I also love the fact that despite Paul Walker's death in 2013, the franchise has his character Brian alive and well, and his presence is not lost on us. It was quite emotional every time they refer to little Brian. There are lot of emotional beats to the film that really pits the film as more than just an action-heavy flick.

One thing I've always loved about this franchise, besides the fast cars and heavy action sequences with cars, is the focus on family. This time we get to see the Torreto family dynamic further developed. While John Cena did his best to fit into the family, it's Vin, Michelle and Jordana who truly make it count in most scenes.

Overall, the film is a super fun, incredibly entertaining ride that sets the mood for a summer back to theaters. ~Marriska Fernandes

Originally published on Tribute.ca.