The Fast & Furious movies found their rhythm, with some entries soaring to critical acclaim while others faced the challenge of maintaining the momentum.
The "Fast & Furious" franchise has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its high-octane action, thrilling car chases, and a star-studded cast. Over the years, the franchise has released 11 movies, each bringing its own unique blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement to the big screen. From the heart-pounding spectacle of bursting out the nose of an exploding plane to the jaw-dropping leaps between skyscrapers, the series has evolved into a high-octane extravaganza of outrageous action. As the stunts grew wilder and the family of Dom (Vin Diesel), Brian (Paul Walker), Letty (Michelle Rodriguez), and their crew expanded, critics and audiences alike eagerly embraced the franchise's audacious spirit.
In this article, we will dive into the world of "Fast & Furious" and rank the 11 movies from best to worst. From the franchise's humble beginnings as a street racing film to its evolution into a full-throttle global adventure, we will explore the highs and lows of each installment. From the emotional crescendo of Furious 7 following Paul Walker's tragic passing to the subsequent twists and turns in F8, the journey of the Fast & Furious saga has been nothing short of extraordinary. Now, with the inclusion of spin-off Hobbs & Shaw, the long-awaited F9, and Fast X on the horizon, the family is back in full force.
Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, this article will provide you with an entertaining and insightful ranking of these adrenaline-fueled movies. So, hold on tight as we countdown the best to worst: 11 Fast & Furious movies ranked!
1. Fast Five (2011)
2. Furious 7 (2015)
3. Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
4. The Fate of the Furious (2017)
5. Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)
6. F9: The Fast Saga (2021)
7. The Fast and the Furious (2001)
8. The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006)
9. Fast X (2023)
10. 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003)
11. Fast & Furious (2009)
1. Fast Five (2011)
79% liked this movie
What sets "Fast Five" apart is its seamless blend of high-octane action, heist elements, and the camaraderie among the characters. The film also introduced Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson to the franchise as Luke Hobbs, a relentless federal agent determined to capture Dom and his crew. The addition of Johnson's character injected new energy into the series, setting the stage for future installments.
One of the standout scenes in "Fast Five" is the iconic vault heist, where Dom and Brian use two modified Dodge Chargers to drag a massive vault through the streets of Rio, creating chaos and destruction in their wake. This scene became emblematic of the franchise's audacious approach to action sequences.
"Fast Five" received widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences for its thrilling action, well-executed heist plot, and charismatic performances. The film's success revitalized the Fast & Furious franchise, paving the way for more ambitious and adrenaline-fueled adventures in subsequent films.
2. Furious 7 (2015)
81% liked this movie
"Furious 7" is renowned for its high-octane action sequences, including the jaw-dropping scene where cars parachute from an airplane and land on a mountain road. Another standout moment involves a car crashing through the windows of multiple skyscrapers in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the franchise's signature blend of intense action and breathtaking stunts.
The film's emotional resonance stems from its dedication to Paul Walker. Following his untimely death, the filmmakers used a combination of CGI, body doubles, and scenes shot with Walker's brothers, Caleb and Cody, to complete his remaining scenes. The movie concludes with a heartfelt tribute to Walker, leaving fans and fellow cast members with a poignant farewell.
Upon its release, "Furious 7" received widespread acclaim for its action sequences, visual effects, and heartfelt tribute to Paul Walker. The film's success at the box office further solidified the franchise's popularity and demonstrated its ability to captivate audiences with its thrilling action and genuine emotional moments.
3. Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
81% liked this movie
"Fast & Furious 6" is known for its high-octane action sequences, including a thrilling chase on a highway in Spain and an intense showdown on a military cargo plane. The film also delves into the theme of family, a recurring motif in the series, exploring the loyalty and bonds that tie the crew together.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film involves a daring heist where the crew attempts to stop a military convoy and rescue a valuable asset, showcasing their exceptional driving skills and teamwork. The movie's climax, set on the aforementioned cargo plane, features breathtaking stunts and intense combat, culminating in a suspenseful and action-packed finale.
Upon its release, "Fast & Furious 6" received positive reviews from both critics and audiences, praising its action sequences, character development, and the chemistry among the cast. The film's success contributed to the franchise's growing popularity and set the stage for future installments, continuing the saga of high-speed adventures and thrilling heists.
4. The Fate of the Furious (2017)
81% liked this movie
"The Fate of the Furious" explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the strength of family bonds, which have been central to the franchise. The film features intense action sequences, including a high-speed chase through the streets of New York City and a gripping submarine battle in the Arctic. The movie also marks the first installment in the series after the passing of Paul Walker, who portrayed Brian O'Conner, and his absence is acknowledged in the story.
One of the standout scenes in the film involves a massive prison brawl featuring Dwayne Johnson's character, Luke Hobbs, and Jason Statham's character, Deckard Shaw. This sequence showcases their physical prowess and fighting skills, adding to the film's adrenaline-fueled excitement.
Upon its release, "The Fate of the Furious" received mixed reviews from critics. While the film's action sequences were praised, some critics felt that the story had become overly complex, and the tone had shifted from the franchise's roots. Despite the mixed critical reception, the movie performed exceptionally well at the global box office, demonstrating the enduring popularity of the Fast & Furious series among audiences worldwide.
5. Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)
75% liked this movie
"Hobbs & Shaw" is known for its over-the-top action sequences, including a thrilling chase scene in London and a showdown involving advanced technology and hand-to-hand combat. The movie introduces Vanessa Kirby as Hattie Shaw, Deckard Shaw's sister, adding another layer to the story and bringing her own set of skills to the team.
One of the film's standout moments is the action-packed finale set in Samoa, where Hobbs and Shaw, along with their family, use homemade weapons and vehicles to defend against Brixton's high-tech forces. This sequence combines intense action with the theme of family, a recurring motif in the Fast & Furious franchise.
Upon its release, "Hobbs & Shaw" received praise for its entertaining action sequences, chemistry between the leads, and the introduction of new characters. While it deviates from the main Fast & Furious storyline, the spin-off was well-received by fans and audiences, proving that the franchise's universe could expand beyond its core characters while maintaining its signature blend of humor and high-octane action.
6. F9: The Fast Saga (2021)
75% liked this movie
In "F9," the crew reunites to stop Jakob and Cipher while also contending with past unresolved conflicts. The film delves into the Toretto family's history, exploring their relationships and the events that led to their current circumstances. As expected from the franchise, "F9" delivers a series of mind-boggling action sequences, including car chases, daring heists, and intense hand-to-hand combat.
One of the film's notable scenes involves a car chase through a minefield, where the characters skillfully navigate the treacherous terrain, avoiding explosives and showcasing their driving expertise. Additionally, "F9" features a gravity-defying moment in space, taking the franchise's action sequences to new heights.
Upon its release, "F9" received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its action sequences and criticism for its over-the-top plot and reliance on spectacle. Nevertheless, the film was well-received by fans of the franchise, appreciating its commitment to delivering high-octane entertainment and continuing the legacy of the Fast & Furious saga.
7. The Fast and the Furious (2001)
86% liked this movie
"The Fast and the Furious" is known for its thrilling and well-choreographed car races, showcasing the underground racing culture with a mix of adrenaline-pumping action and intense drama. The film also explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and family, laying the foundation for the franchise's enduring appeal.
One of the iconic scenes in the movie involves a high-speed race between Brian and Dominic, highlighting their competitive spirit and setting the stage for future racing sequences in the franchise. The film's success led to multiple sequels, transforming the Fast & Furious series into a global phenomenon.
Upon its release, "The Fast and the Furious" received positive reviews for its exciting action sequences, engaging storyline, and charismatic performances, particularly from Vin Diesel and Paul Walker. The film's popularity not only launched a successful franchise but also contributed to the resurgence of interest in car culture and street racing in mainstream cinema.
8. The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006)
84% liked this movie
"The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift" is known for its unique drifting sequences, showcasing the art of controlled sliding and precision driving. The film features several intense and visually stunning race scenes set against the backdrop of Tokyo's neon-lit streets and iconic locations.
One of the film's standout moments is the climactic drift race down a winding mountain road, where Sean and Takashi face off in a high-stakes showdown. The scene captures the essence of drift racing and adds to the movie's excitement and intensity.
Upon its release, "Tokyo Drift" received mixed reviews from critics, but it found success among fans of the franchise, particularly those interested in the drifting subculture. Despite initial skepticism due to the absence of the original cast, the film eventually became an integral part of the Fast & Furious timeline, with subsequent films incorporating characters and events from "Tokyo Drift" into the overarching narrative of the series.
9. Fast X (2023)
74% liked this movie
It seems like "Fast X" embraces the ambitious nature of its predecessors while simultaneously struggling to balance the extensive cast and complex narrative. The film scatters the familiar family of characters around the globe, introducing a multitude of storylines and locations. Despite the film's sprawling and grandiose scope, it manages to capture the essence of the franchise through its absurd and over-the-top action sequences.
A significant highlight of "Fast X" appears to be the introduction of Jason Momoa as Dante, the flamboyant and insane antagonist. Momoa's portrayal of Dante is described as a standout performance, making him one of the franchise's most memorable villains. The dynamic between Dante and Vin Diesel's stoic character, Dom, adds depth to the storyline, especially when Dante targets Dom's family, a surefire way to grab Dom's attention.
While the film might struggle with its extensive plotlines and character roster, Momoa's presence and performance elevate "Fast X," making it an enjoyable and worthwhile addition to the Fast & Furious series. His character's antics and clashes with Dom provide the film with moments of intensity and excitement, ensuring that fans of the franchise find something to appreciate in this action-packed installment.
10. 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003)
87% liked this movie
In this film, Brian O'Conner (Paul Walker), no longer an LAPD officer, finds himself in Miami and reluctantly teams up with childhood friend Roman Pearce (Tyrese Gibson) to bring down a drug lord named Carter Verone (Cole Hauser). To do so, they go undercover as street racers and infiltrate Verone's criminal organization.
The movie features a heavy focus on street racing, car culture, and flashy cars, similar to the first film. Brian and Roman participate in a series of high-stakes races and engage in thrilling car chases throughout the film. Eva Mendes also stars as Monica Fuentes, an undercover U.S. Customs agent who helps Brian and Roman in their mission.
While "2 Fast 2 Furious" received mixed reviews from critics, it performed well at the box office and has since gained a cult following among fans of the franchise. The film is praised for its exciting action sequences, particularly the visually impressive race scenes, and the chemistry between Paul Walker and Tyrese Gibson. Despite the absence of Vin Diesel, who did not return for this sequel, the movie managed to capture the essence of the Fast & Furious series and set the stage for future installments.
11. Fast & Furious (2009)
84% liked this movie
The movie follows the story of Dominic Toretto (Diesel) and Brian O'Conner (Walker) as they reunite to take down a drug lord who is using street racing as a cover for his criminal activities. As the story unfolds, they face challenges and confront their own personal demons.
"Fast & Furious" received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its fast-paced action, nostalgic callbacks to the original movie, and the chemistry between the cast members. However, others felt that the storyline was predictable and lacked originality.
Despite the mixed reviews, "Fast & Furious" was commercially successful, grossing over $360 million worldwide. It also helped to revitalize the franchise and set the stage for future installments.