The best one so far

Rating: 9/10 (6 March 2014)

While most franchises lose their steam with each succeeding sequel, the Fast and the Furious franchise is that rare exception where its later films breathe in new life into the series. Once a franchise about car racing, "Fast Five" took an unexpected turn as a bank heist thriller in the vein of Steven Soderbergh's "Ocean's 11," a welcomed change as seen by its huge box office earnings and critical success. Now, "Furious 6" is neither about car racing nor bank heists, but rather a terrorist threat with obvious inspirations from "The Dark Knight" and "Batman Begin." Also including "Fast Five," the results are immensely satisfying entertaining.
The key to the franchise's upward turn in quality is due to director Justin Lin. He is a skilled action director, and many filmmakers can learn a few things or two from him: The action sequences are impressive, engaging, comprehensible, and well-shot, with practical effects to boot. There is a sense of danger, verve, and life in these scenes are rarely found in other films. While I usually don't react out loudly when watching a film, this film had me at moments when I was gasping, jaw dropping, laughing, and applauding, or all of them at once
Another ingredient to the film's success is the chemistry between the movie's cast members. In particular, Tyrese Gibson and Ludicrous have such a terrific rapport with each other that they provide some of the film's biggest laughs and memorable one-liners. Additionally, Luke Evans is definitely a step up above the previous film's antagonist, and Gina Carano provides some great action packed moments, although not much performance-wise. As for the story, it's nothing special, but I dare you not to act surprised when several plot twists are revealed. .
If there's one thing to learn about this franchise, it's that some change can be a good thing. While the later sequels do focus away from the car racing, they still featured cars, which helped retain old fans while bringing in new ones. "Furious 6" is terrific entertainment, and judging by yet another dazzling cliffhanger and the audience's reaction, "Fast & Furious 7" will be an amazing finale for the series. Unfortunately, Justin Lin will not be back for the last installment. But I kid you not, this series needs him to make another installment. So far, this has been one of the best movies in the franchise with a very well thought out plot, jaw dropping moments, intense car chases, and suspense full moments that make you want more.