Movie Review: ‘Fast X’ is ridiculous fun, and that’s all it needs to be
“Fast X” might not capture the magic it once had, but it manages to give you all the ridiculous fun you expect as well as the franchise’s best villain when, after years of outsmarting and outdriving their foes, the “Fast Family” must face their most deadly adversary.
By Connor Webber
The “Fast and Furious” franchise is one I have had the pleasure of growing up with. The first film came out when I was three; now I’m 23. The franchise has changed its identity many times, from classic early 2000s crime films to bombastic, over-the-top action movies – some changes have been for the better; some have not.
Between 2011-2015, the franchise went on an incredible run (“Fast Five,” “Fast & Furious 6,” and “Furious 7″) when it cemented itself as one of the best action franchises of all time, but since then, I feel the films have lost their luster. “The Fate of the Furious” and “F9” were not my favorite, but I can confidently say “Fast X” is a major improvement on those previous two entries.
While the action is still over the top and the words “family” and “faith” are still beating you over the head, the one thing that separates “Fast X” from the other films in the franchise is Jason Momoa’s Dante. He has the be the most menacing villain in “Fast and Furious” history. Not because of the “why” Dante is attacking the fast family – that’s something we’ve seen too many times – it’s because he matches the chaotic energy the franchise is now notorious for. Momoa plays Dante so insane; I would want to see him play a villain as big as the Joker; that’s how psychotic he is. He commands every scene he’s in, and if I see this film again, it will be due in large part to his performance.
But other than that, “Fast X” continues to be exactly what you expect: fast cars, big explosions, and some RIDICULOUS set pieces. While the biggest reason I enjoyed “Fast X” is because of Momoa, I do feel knowing this is part one of a three-part finale adds to the film’s excitement. Without spoilers, I will say my jaw was on the floor for the last five-to-ten minutes of the film.
If you’re a fan of the franchise, “Fast X” will not disappoint, and even if you aren’t, I think it’s worth appreciating just how crazy ambitious these films have become.
“Fast X” is rated PG-13 and hits theaters worldwide on May 17, 2023. There is one mid-credit scene, and it’s worth waiting to see.
Fast & Furious In the Parks
Fans of the “Fast” Saga can enter the world of Dom, Letty, and the rest of the family aboard Fast & Furious: Supercharged at Universal Studios Florida. The same experience is also part of The World-Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Currently, vehicles from “Fast X” are on display in Universal Plaza on Universal Studios Hollywood’s Upper Lot, including the 1970 Dodge Charger, 1970 Datsun 240Z, 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo, 1967 Chevrolet El Camino, and 1967 Ford Fairlane.
