Fast Five (2011)

Genre

Action | Crime

Director

Justin Lin

Country

USA

Cast

Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris Bridges, Matt Schulze, Sung Kang, Dwayne Johnson, Gal Gadot, Joaquim de Almeida, Elsa Pataky, Tego Calderon, Don Omar

Storyline

Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) and Brian O'Conner (Paul Walker) plan a massive heist to buy their freedom while in the sights of a powerful Brazilian drug lord (Joaquim de Almeida) and a dangerous federal agent (Dwayne Johnson).

Opinion

After several unappealing films, and when one would have never expected anything good, Justin Lin comes back with his third entry in the franchise, and it's surprisingly good. I am not saying "Fast Five" is Oscar worthy, but it definitely does what it is supposed to do, it entertains, which is not that granted considering the previous entry(ies).

Once again the plot isn't particularly strong or witty, but it is quite decent and it involves one of my favourite things ever on films, a heist. Sure, it isn't "Jackie Brown" or to stay on topic "The Italian Job" - yes, I like that film - but it is pulled off nicely.

The film also features something that resembles character development. The personalities of the main characters are kind of explored a bit, and fear, vulnerability and humour are shown.

Another huge improvement on its predecessor is the action. There is no lack of races or fast and beautiful cars, and the action sequences are actually gripping - they sure will draw your attention.

As for the acting, there isn't much of an improvement here. Dwayne Johnson is a great addition to the series and Vin Diesel sure can do action films, but the acting still leaves much to be desired.