I Wasn't Supposed To Like This,But I Did!

Rating: Null/10 (11 January 2002)

Anyone who sits down to watch this movie should be looking for 2 hours of pure,forget your problems,entertainment. Shakespeare it ain't! However, it is a loud,action-packed diversion and it is lots of fun. And I,being long out of my teens and a Detroit muscle car enthusiast to boot,wasn't supposed to like it!
The plot is a bit on the thin side,but it is basically just an excuse to bombard the viewer with a cool,thumping soundtrack and lots of shiny,fast,little cars. I found myself liking these characters,particularly the girls. Both Jordana Brewster and Michelle Rodriquez did a fine job as very strong young women,each in her own way. Vin Diesel was likeable as a character that was reminiscent of a Hollywood version of Jesse James or Robin Hood. Paul Walker did well in his portrayal of the young undercover cop,who is torn between love and duty. I also found Chad Lindberg's portrayal of Jesse,the young genius whose potential is never fully realized,to be touching. Certainly,having the talented Ted Levine aboard,as the voice of reason,lent an air of credibility to the whole proceedings. This man always shines,even in the smallest roles.
Some of the plot was disturbing,such as the treatment of truck drivers,but it was apparent that the world of modern day street racing was well researched,by writers and actors alike. The terminology was up to the minute and if all else fails,just holler,"NOS!" There were definitely times that one had to suspend disbelief,but all in all,I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes cars,a flashy soundtrack and a fast-paced movie! Pure fun,all the way.