Movie review: Furious 7

Returning to the United States, Dom and his crew are ready for life to settle down a bit. But that isn't about to happen when Deckard Shaw sets out after Dom to get revenge for his comatose brother.

Vin Diesel (Dom), Paul Walker (Brian), Jason Statham (Deckard Shaw), Michelle Rodriguez (Letty), Jordana Brewster (Mia), Tyrese Gibson (Roman), Ludacris (Tej), Dwayne Johnson (Hobbs), Lucas Black (Sean), Kurt Russell (Mr. Nobody), Nathalie Emmanuel (Ramsey).

Dom and his team are ready for some downtime in the U.S. after defeating an international terrorist. But the vacation is short when Deckard starts hunting Dom to avenge his brother. Complicating things is a new software program that can track anyone anywhere, which is desperately sought after by Mr. Nobody, a government official. Competing for the software is a ruthless terrorist who will happily eliminate Dom and his team if necessary.

Acting was decent once again though Diesel is starting to show his age, as are a few others. Walker, who will be missed greatly, did a nice job once again. Statham is an enjoyable addition who brought a bit more energy to this episode. Rodriguez felt a bit off in this one, and Johnson seemed underused. Russell was an interesting addition, that almost worked, and he did pretty well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were solid as they have been in this series but CGI is definitely becoming more of the film. Several scenes in this one were completely, absolutely ridiculous and obviously impossible without CGI. Bluntly, the CGI was ridiculously over the top leading us to compare this to a Transformers movie. Dialogue was okay, as were sound and soundtrack.

Overall if you are a fan of the franchise you will likely enjoy at least parts of this one. If you are watching for the hot cars, hot girls, or incredible action you may still be entertained. Likewise if you crave intense CGI. But if you want anything at all based in reality, move along.

With plenty of violence, some sexuality and mild foul language, this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 11.4.15
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Action & Adventure, Action Thrillers, Crime Action, Crime Thrillers, Heist Films

copyright ©2015 Dave Riedel

Remember to follow me for reviews as they are posted!