'Furious 7' Review: For old times' sake and for Paul Walker

Director: James Wan
Cast: Paul Walker, Vin Diesel, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Jason Statham, Michelle Rodriguez, Kurt Russell, Djimon Hounsou
Rating: ***

What's it about: Dom, Brian and the rest of the 'family' come under attack from Deckard Shaw, whose brother they put out of action in the previous film and rescued Letty from. Shaw is out for blood and will stop at nothing to have his revenge. But in the meantime, the gang's friend Luke Hobbs is sent to hospital, putting another agent in their midst who goes by the name Frank Petty. With a common enemy to pursue, the two join forces and speed through every place from Azerbaijan to Dubai, high and low in what promises to be a thrilling race to the finish.

What's hot: The crazy car chase scenes are back with a vengeance and equally fast and furious flow the cheesy lines that the films in this franchise are known for. Equally super is the tribute to Walker, which is not to be missed. 

What's not: There are times you feel there are scenes that could have been clipped out and seem all too redundant in the scheme of things. In the spirit of the premise of this film, it could be much shorter and crisper, instead of dwelling on a whole lot of unnecessary events for no good reason. 

What to do: Watch it once, for old times' sake. It's still got some of that old sound and fury, but the tiredness still comes through. Nevertheless, if you enjoy cheesiness, you'll enjoy this one.