DVD Reviews

Fast and Furious Five

• Rating:
• Director: Justin Lin
• Starring: Dwayne Johnson
• Details: US/130mins (12A)

Upping the action considerably after a lame fourth installment, Universal - the studio behind this franchise - have backed director Justin Lin in a big way. The budget has probably doubled, and the action positively sizzles as a result. Bringing back pretty much everyone (resulting in a bit of an Ocean's Eleven vibe) and adding Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as an intense foe, this sequel is far more fun than it has any right to be, five films in.
After the finale of the last flick, Diesel's Dom Toretto has been broken out of the joint by Paul Walker's former fed, Brian O'Conner, and his sister, Mia (the returning Brewster). Hoofing it to Rio after they become fugitives, the gang manage to piss off a powerful local crimelord, and then plan to pinch all of his money. But they can't do it alone; so they call in pretty much everyone involved with the first four films to help - except for Lucas Black from Tokyo Drift. On their trail is a pumped-up, intensely purposeful marshal played by Johnson (looking about the same size as your regular compact car).
It's worth pointing out that 'Fast 5' is every bit as dumb and ridiculous as the last film. The plot is crazy, and major characters make decisions seemingly on a whim. That said, it's served up in such a brashly entertaining manner that it ceases to matter - especially after a cracking opening involving a train heist, when suspension of disbelief is a given. Lin keeps things moving at a breakneck pace and has several action sequences that each pack a visceral punch.
The dynamic between Diesel and Walker has also evolved to 'unspoken bond', rather than the alpha posturing that invaded the first film, and the two seem more at ease in each other's presence. Walker in particular is in his element during some of the action scenes. There are a lot more shootouts than previous flicks, but less flashy cars, which may disappoint the Neon Micra brigade somewhat. Johnson's appearance gives the film urgency, and the former wrestler is absolutely pumped for the part. Perpetually perspiring, he's out to get his man, and it's The Rock's best role since the hugely underrated Welcome to the Jungle. He brings a lot to the film - not least his imposing physicality.
Fast 5 is about the best of the series so far, but a word of warning - don't leave after the credits roll. There's a huge link to a possible Fast 6 that fans won't want to miss out on. Think Samuel L. Jackson in Iron Man.

Review by Mike Sheridan