Deep it isn't, but if you don't think about it you'll be entertained

Rating: 7/10 (13 January 2014)

Brian O'Connor goes undercover as Brian Spillman to try and infiltrate an underworld of street racers lead by Dominic Toretto. He earns the trust of Dominic, falls in love with Dominic's sister Mia, but Brian might have to put all that aside to do the job he was hired to do. OK. I'll fully admit this isn't anything thought provoking. But it isn't trying to be! Does it lack substance? Of course it does, Sherlock! What do people honestly expect when it comes to these movies, Schindler's List? i think you may need to straighten out your priorities. This doesn't try to be anything more than a enjoyably big budgeted B movie, and that's exactly what it is. It is filled with hot chicks, fast cars, heavy metal & rap songs, and impressive stunts. The most entertaining thing, aside from the action scenes is the chemistry between Paul Walker & Vin Diesel. It is the main cog that keeps this movie going. The acting won't win any academy awards, but they are enjoyable. Paul Walker had really become a solid actor over the years. He was amazing in Running Scared. I genuinely like Walker. Honestly, he isn't at his best here. For half of the film, he is far too mechanical with his surroundings. I know that was part of his character, but he doesn't really show off the talent he has until the finale when things get hectic. He is very good in the final 20 minutes, but his performance is very forgettable as a whole. I know Vin Diesel gets a lot of flack, but I dug him. His macho routine was very enjoyable. He'll never be considered a great actor, but he has charisma in spades. He has one great scene where he realizes Brian is an undercover cop. Jordanna Brewster is rather bland as Walker's love interest. She has moments of great work, but not enough of them. Michelle Rodriguez does her bitchy routine again, and glares a lot. She was alright. Matt Schuzle annoyed the crap out of me as Vince. He acted like a petulant 5 year old. The Finale is great stuff, loaded with emotional scenes, and heart pounding action. The showdown between Walker & Diesel is memorable.
*SPOILERS* I have mixed feelings on the ending. I like that Brian had so much respect for Dominic that he let him go, but it felt a little contrived as well. It made sense, considering the friendship they built up, but it also felt like an excuse to continue the franchise, even if Vin didn't return fully until part 4.
Final Thoughts: I enjoy it, sue me. It isn't art or anything like that, but I can't deny how entertaining it is. I say give it a break, and check it out. Kick your brain to the curb, and enjoy!
7/10