Saturday, August 3, 2019

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)

The "Fast and Furious" franchise has not once appealed to me as far as action-films go, but this spinoff of the franchise is one hell of an entertaining film. It surpassed any doubts I had going into it, even though I didn't really see this film as worth watching. This film is fun, action-packed and very funny. Unexpectedly, this film did the impossible, which was entertain those moviegoers that aren't fans of the "Fast and Furious" franchise. 

Director of "Deadpool 2"  David Leitch, takes the wheel in this action-packed film, which is the first spinoff in the "Fast and Furious" films. Leitch has another entertaining film under his belt. He makes this film as action-packed and exciting as possible, which shows to the highest of levels. High octance leveled action fills this film from start to finish and I think that Leitch completely nails it. The humor is also pretty funny. It is mainly due to stars Jason Statham and Dwayne Johnsons undeniable chemistry. 

Yeah granted that Johnson and Statham are what make this film utterly enjoyable, but it's Vanessa Kirby who steals the show. Kirby is the one who makes this film utterly enjoyable. She makes saving the world badass and sexy. She is just as important, maybe even more important as a standout than its leading stars. 

The films baddie is a meta-human with enhanced abilities played by Idris Elba. He pulls off one of the coolest bad guys in a movie this year and it's very telling. On top of adding to the action sequences he pulls off, is the comedic aspects of his character that really won me over. 

Scoring the action-packed film is Tyler Bates, who previously teamed up with Leitch for "Deadpool 2". Bates crafts a score that is just as exciting and energetic as the film itself. 

I'm not going to spoil the film, but all that to say is that there are two appearances by some of your favorite funny guys. As to who they are, you'll just have to watch and find out for yourself. 

I have not once seen any of the films in the franchise, but does this film count? You bet it does. This film is unique, fast-paced and a thrilling ride of entertainment. So, for fans of the franchise or those new to the franchise, this film should satisfy both parties. If you like action films with car chases, then you're going to like this film. 

Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures















Rate: B+

Director: David Leitch

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, Vanessa Kirby and Idris Elba 

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for prolonged sequences of action and violence, suggestive material and some strong language)

Runtime: 2 Hours & 15 Minutes

Synopsis: Ever since hulking lawman Hobbs (Johnson), a loyal agent of America's Diplomatic Security Service, and lawless outcast Shaw (Statham), a former British military elite operative, first faced off in 2015’s Furious 7, the duo have swapped smack talk and body blows as they’ve tried to take each other down. But when cyber-genetically enhanced anarchist Brixton (Idris Elba) gains control of an insidious bio-threat that could alter humanity forever — and bests a brilliant and fearless rogue MI6 agent (The Crown’s Vanessa Kirby), who just happens to be Shaw’s sister — these two sworn enemies will have to partner up to bring down the only guy who might be badder than themselves.