Faster (2010)

User Review

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  TheMovieDiorama

  5 / 10

  Faster speeds along in third gear. It can't quite reach fourth gear let alone fifth, for everything Faster does correctly it also lacks in something else. One thing is for sure, it's good to see Johnson at the helm of a gritty action thriller before he became Hollywood's most bankable star. Having recently been released from prison, a driver seeks revenge on the group of men that put him there and fractionally killed him. A simple premise of vengeance as the anonymous individual simply known as "Driver" drives down the dark road of hatred. I adored the serious nature of the story, the visceral gritty corruption that is evoked from the driver exhumes a sympathetic undertone. Adequately balanced as you question the actions he takes, determining whether what he is doing is right or wrong. It's not an original narrative, yet the reminiscence of western gunslinger classics seeps through the modern cracks to create a refreshing take on a vengeful character. Johnson's physical demeanour is intimidating, fortunately it makes up for his monotonous acting. Cugino and Thornton were wasted potential as they attempt to convey some emotional complexity. Grace was pointless. Jackson-Cohen played the typical British antagonist with the most forced London accent ever. Whilst I do appreciate the religious themes, like its topic, it came across as preachy and felt unnecessary, even if it was a plot device to taint the driver's determined mind. It's not so much an action film, more of a thrilling drama. A few car chases, some shootouts but mostly intense stares and a whole lot of muscle (his arms are like tree trunks...). The concluding twist, whilst predictable, was slightly underwhelming and really didn't leave much of an impact. It's paced slightly on the slower side however it works for me. Faster may not be as quick as viewers would expect, however it is a watchable thriller with a distinctly gritty style.

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