Riding Again

Normally I'm not a big fan of an endless string of sequels, or sometimes even sequels in general. If there is a source material, a vision, or a plan, it can work. Otherwise, it's tough sledding. That's what makes the "Fast and Furious" series different.

When "The Fast and The Furious" debuted in 2001, it was a fun summer ride. Then, of course, it spawned a couple of marginal sequels that did little but tarnish the image of the original. Such is the fate of many Hollywood "franchises."

Then something interesting happened in 2009. "Fast and Furious," the fourth film in the series, reunited the original cast in a story and production that matched the fun of the original. At the end of the film, there was an opening for more installments. Even more surprising, I couldn't help but hope they would make another.

On Friday, I'll get my wish. "Fast Five" is the fifth film in the franchise — but since I've decided the second and third don't count — we'll call it the third film. Though the summer season officially opens on May 6 with "Thor," "Fast Five" could be the best action film of the first half of summer.

So why is it that this little franchise seems to defy the conventional thinking about too much of a good thing? I have a couple reasons.

First, it doesn't take itself too seriously. This is a movie starring Paul Walker and Vin Diesel. There aren't a lot of poetic speeches, just some cool car chases, great location shots, and a minimal amount of dialogue.

Second, it knows its core audience. This latest installment not only includes the core group, they've added The Rock and rapper Chris "Ludicris" Bridges. In other words, more action and more jokes along with some sweet car chases.

And finally, the series offers some restrained entertainment. There isn't a huge body count, graphic death sequences, graphic sex sequences, and a glut of profane language. This series lets its on-screen stunts do the talking, making it a perfect popcorn movie.

"Fast Five" won't win any awards — unless we're talking about MTV Movie Awards — but it will be worth every penny.

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