Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw is silly, ridiculous, but entertaining nonetheless – a great addition to the Fast & Furious universe.
Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw is the first spin-off in the Fast & Furious universe that focuses on Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) and Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham). Directed by David Leitch, known for John Wick and Deadpool 2.
This is the third time that Luke Hobbs and Deckard Shaw are on screen together. The first time was in Furious 7 when Hobbs and Shaw fought against each other, which ended with Hobbs in the hospital. The second time was in The Fate of the Furious when Hobbs and Shaw were locked up across each other in a high-security prison and fought guards and other prisoners to escape. This time, they have to put aside their differences and work together to save the world.
The story begins in London where a group of MI6 agents, led by Hattie Shaw (Vanessa Kirby) attempt to transport a virus capsule. Brixton Lore (Idris Elba), who describes himself as “The Bad Guy” arrives on the scene with superhuman abilities, attempts to steal the virus, and murders the MI6 agents. Hattie decides to inject herself with the virus and manages to escape from Brixton.
If you haven’t seen Hobbs and Shaw in the previous films, there is a split-screen introducing Hobbs and Shaw and showing their different lifestyles. On the left, Hobbs wakes up by himself. On the right, Shaw wakes up with a woman by his side. Hobbs makes a power shake for breakfast, whereas Shaw cooks an omelet. Hobbs walks outside and the sun is bright in Los Angeles. In contrast, Deckard walks outside and it’s raining in London. The two are then notified about the virus and are asked to save the world.
Hobbs & Shaw is what you expect in the Fast & Furious universe, especially featuring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Jason Statham. The action sequences are ridiculous but entertaining in every way. In one scene, Hobbs jumps out of a skyscraper, without a parachute, falls about 20 stories, and lands on a guy who is lowering himself on cables. Additionally, the playful banter between Hobbs and Shaw are always hysterical on screen as they both attempt to one-up the other. Expect a few surprising cameos that add to the playful banter. Last, but not least, the theme of family, is an important element in the film and franchise.
Newcomers to the franchise: Idris Elba and Vanessa Kirby matched the same energy as Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham each time they are on screen. Idris Elba was the perfect person to play the antagonist against Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham. Not only was he a physical threat, but he had some great lines, “I am Black Superman.” Vanessa Kirby shined brightly on screen as well, whether she’s fighting against the bad guys, conversing with Statham, or flirting with Johnson.
Hobbs & Shaw is the superhero film in the Fast & Furious universe. It’s silly, ridiculous, yet entertaining from beginning to end. If you are already a fan of the Fast & Furious franchise, then you will enjoy Hobbs & Shaw, as it’s another great addition to the franchise. If you have never been a fan, then this film may not be for you. Stay after for the mid-credits scenes!
