Thursday, December 31, 2015

Why the Fast and the Furious movie series is better than any superhero movie

OK, I just finished the movie Furious 7 and I liked it more than I thought. Yes, it was filled with impossible stunts and funny one-liners.  Yes, the team is almost doing Mission Impossible on wheels.  However, in light of the criticism this movie has received, it still was very likeable.  I think I know why.

1. The acting is not top-notch yet still very believable.
2. The story writing has heart, a lot of heart that helps you connect with the characters
3. The stunts are impressive and despite being impossible are fun entertainment to view
4. The CGI special effects do not distract from the fun of the movie
5. Good music to accompany the stunts and story.
6. The stunts never require overt superpowers just super cars!

It is my opinion that these ingredients of the Fast and the Furious series, make it more fun to view than ANY superhero movie.   Now I enjoyed the Batman series (Christian Bale versions preferred), the Superman series, and the Spiderman series as much as the next guy but what sets the Fast and the Furious movies apart is how much more relate-able the characters are.

Sure I don't race hot rods on the streets and do undercover work,  but the fact that none of the characters fly or have any super-human powers make me root for them that much more.  Most people know how to drive a car, and driving fast is a fantasy of many.   Most people want to belong to a fun group of people to share life with.  Most people do NOT fantasize about wearing spandex and spinning webs to fly between buildings.  Most sane people do not have two personas - one as Bruce Wayne, Clark Kent, or Peter Parker and another as a hero that always saves the day.  That is why I like Fast and Furious movies - they appeal to the common man who enjoys adrenaline, fast cars, and a common bond with friends through good times and bad.  They aren't perfect and they basically are superhero movies without superpowers being exhibited (except walking away from terrible crashes), but for all they deliver I still think they have way more fun, entertainment, and heart than many superhero movies out today.