What a Blast!

Rating: 9/10 (4 April 2015)

Wow! When was the last time a film actually lived up to its hype? I cannot believe how much I enjoyed myself at the movies! This film was a TRIP!
Yes, it is an illogical leave-your-brains-at-the-door movie with every law of physics thrown out, but if you can accept this, it is like a fantastic roller coaster ride.
I said leave your brains, but not your heart. There is a lot of emotion to this movie - and not just because of Walker's death.
The stunts will go down in history as THE definition of "over the top."
One of the thing that surprised me is that this franchise if probably one of the (if not THE) most consistent with its story line and character development. With the sole exception of Harry Potter, I am not aware of any long standing franchise that has the exact same people playing the exact same roles with a story line that actually depends on the prior movies. Just remember that #3 is really the back story before the very end of #6. So the order is 1, 2, 4, 5,6,3, 7. If you have seen these films, the you understand.
There is no recap here. If you have not seen at least 3-6, then some of this would be "what are they talking about?" Han's story was throughout 3-6, Lettie's story started in 1 but really took off in 4 and 6, Sean only appeared in 3, etc.
Regarding how they handled Paul Walker: just incredible. I was LOOKING for Cgi, body doubles, twin brothers, and - maybe because I was so caught up in the movie - I never noticed it. The way they ended the film was really nice. It could have been exploitative, but instead it was sweet.
My only complaint (which is why I am giving it a 9 instead of a 10) is that - like #6 - it just goes on 20 minutes too long. Just one more insane over the top action scene than was needed. Minor quibble.
My hat goes off to James Wan, who really surprised me. I have seen practically everything that man has done, and it has all been in moody horror films (after the 1st Saw film, he dropped the gore and torture - thankfully - from his subsequent films). Never would have expected him to direct an action film so well.
Definitely on my wish list for the blu-ray version.
If you like 1-6 (or even 4-6), then you will love this.
If you have never seen any of these films, I would recommend seeing 4-6, then 3.
If you don't like any of the others, then you won't like this.
This franchise -for fans like me - actually seems to be getting better and better.
How many #7's are rated one of the best of the series?
I am ready for #8!!!