jaredlemin

I was wondering when I would when the point where I think the movies should have stopped. For me, this is it. At this point the plot felt more like a Soap Opera in the sense that the plot was getting drug out far longer than it should be. What made this movie worse for me was the way they set up the return of some great characters, but then they seemed to abandon that storyline entirely for more scenes with Vin fighting the Rock or racing Paul Walker. This had so much potential being set in Rio and even ending in a heist, but they didn't even do that well. I had this rated as a 4 at first, but I had to give it an extra point considering the expectations of anyone actually watching this movie. Given the audience the audience and expectations, I suppose it met them, but nothing was exceeded. This fact is made even more disappointing by the budget they had for this movie I'm sure. Okay, this movie earned yet another star at the end, but I won't say why. I'm still surprised to see so many rating this as the best of the Franchise, I wouldn't agree with that, but I'm looking for more than Action in a movie.

I remember watching this movie for the first time with my Dad. He told me how much he liked it so I didn't think I would, but I ended up watching every minute with him knowing I was probably too young for some of the scenes. I still get the same enjoyment out of watching this one today. From the first scene to the last this one keeps you on the edge of your seat with testosterone pumping surfing, fighting, and shooting scenes. This one is great to watch not just for the nostalgia, but the story and the heists. This one may end up on a list of Cult Classics, but it deserves even more credit than that.

I watched this on a flight as I was gearing up to watch the Olympics, and it couldn't be a more perfect time to watch this movie. This is a beautifully done film about a sport that doesn't get a lot of attention, but commands the lives of so many. A sport typically only for elites allows for an incredible underdog story to emerge when a boat of 8 learn to move as one as they push their competition and records earning a spot to represent their country at the Olympic Games. I like how this movie follows the team through the college ranks, trials, and the Games showing how much work goes into each and every athlete selected to represent their country.