Ignore the haters, better than you'd expect

Rating: 6/10 (24 November 2004)

I admit I was skeptical about watching this movie before viewing it since the preview made it look like a shallow action film for teens with no substance whatsoever...and then there's Vin Diesel (and Ja Rule). But came away with a feeling of, well, not quite satisfaction, but definitely not discomfort as the haters (aka Internet movie nerds and "critics") bring forth in their reviews.
Sure there is action, explosions, chases, hot chicks, etc. but that's to be expected from a film called "The Fast and the Furious." Indeed, it is fast with its MTV style editing with furious undertones of rage and violence and crime, but hey, it's a movie about criminal car racers for crying out loud.
Yes the visuals are impressive and the sound is good too. The editing, lighting, cinematography and all the other technicals are well done. The acting...not so well done but not awful - there really isn't a whole lot, nor dialogue for that matter. But what makes the story compelling is its (simple yes, but intriguing nevertheless) character relationships which form the plot.
Is this film over the top? Yes. But it is done in such a way that keeps you interested, and besides, since so few of us actually do know about the undercover world of streetcar racing, who are we to say what is real and what isn't? Besides, if you haven't been paying attention, this film is a male fantasy - muscles, guns, money, cars, women...like every other video on MTV (which explains the annoying soundtrack).
This film is not a great movie, but it has no pretense of being one, and that is refreshing when so much crap out there does. It is a popcorn flick, instantly forgettable but watchable over and over nonetheless. Plus, watch the DVD extras as to how some impressive stunts were done, and your appreciation for this film will grow.
OVERALL RATING: 6 of 10 stars. It won't hurt to watch this one, just remember to suspend your disbelief (you should anyway - it's a movie!)