When it comes to the Fast films this 2003 sequel, and the only one to not feature Vin Diesel, is often regarded as the most underrated out of the so far eight films. I will get more into that in my review a bit later on; in the meantime a spoiler alert is being issued. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.
After letting Toretto get away in the previous film Brian O’Conner (Paul Walker) has been on the run from his former superiors. Brian makes a living off of illegal street races, usually organized by his friend Tej Parker (Chris “Ludacris” Bridges). During one race Brian gets captured by FBI agents, after being recognized by U.S customs officer Monica Fuentes (Eva Mendes). However Brian is given the chance to be pardoned for his crimes if he helps the undercover Fuentes (whom he is attracted too and the feeling is mutual) take down Argentinian drug lord Carter Verone (Cole Hauser). Brian agrees but only if he picks a partner to help him maintain his cover. His pick, his old friend and sharp tongued Roman Pierce (Tyrese Gibson) who is currently on house arrest. Roman blames Brian for his time in jail and refuses; until he gets the same offer as Brian. The two soon get in to Verone’s circle, but when the drug lord becomes suspicious and the FBI gets impatient Brian and Roman must come up with a plan to stop Verone from fleeing the country to avoid the charges against him.
As I stated earlier many fans of the franchise have stated that the first sequel to the Fast films is the most underrated. I might have to agree with the statement solely based on the performances of not only Paul Walker but of other actors the fans have come to know and love throughout the franchise; of course I’m talking about Tyrese Gibson and Chris “Ludacris” Bridges. The two of them have been comedy gold for the rest of the franchise; I know there have been rumors about Gibson’s future with the franchise but there hasn’t been any news as of this date so I hope it’s good news. I think Mendes is a pretty good actress and her chemistry with Walker was not bad, but his on-screen relationship with Jordana Brewster’s character throughout the franchise is much better. I think the action in the film is very good; particularly towards the end of the film with the decoy cars and the unrealistic car jump onto the boat (I know I have to suspend my disbelief with these movies but come on.) Overall I think if you liked the first Fast and Furious film and want to continue this sequel is worth continuing.
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