F9's scores of 5.5 on IMDb and 59% on Rotten Tomatoes show that both fans and critics are divided about the movie. The divided reception has also trickled over to Reddit, where there are a few conflicting opinions over the newest movie installment.
However, the majority of fans on the forum appear to have been satisfied after leaving the theater. Whether it's the humor or the usual speeding cars, there is an abundance of praise, with many arguing that things shouldn't be taken too seriously.
The Stunts And Action Scenes
Redditor PTS_2· states that even though most of the stunts and action sequences "defied common sense and physics," they are very enjoyable.
It's indeed true that the movie has some cheesy action sequences. The Dodge Charger Hellcat's ridiculous slingshot across a ravine in Montequinto is one of the most bizarre actions sequences in the franchise, but it's jaw-dropping nevertheless. And so is Dom flipping a 16-wheeler using a salon car. These scenes in the movie were made to top everything that had been done before, and they mostly succeed, making this particular installment a standout one.
The Nod To Brian O'Conner
At the end of the movie, Dom asks Little Brian to pause before saying grace because someone special is about to join them. Brian O'Conner's Nissan Skyline then pulls up on the driveway. Cheekily named Redditor and_yet_another_user·singles this out as one of the best things about the movie.
Although Brian can't participate in the heists anymore, fans can always feel his presence throughout the movies as the directors find ways to pay tribute to Paul Walker (who sadly passed away in 2013). Even though the family has grown large, with additions such as Deckard Shaw and Jakob now being included in the Toretto family, Brian is not to be forgotten and that's with this scene is meant to emphasize.
Dom And Jakob's Background Stories
F9 explores the background stories of Dom and Jakob Toretto, with Vinnie Bennet and Finn Cole playing the younger versions of the characters. None of them look like the older versions of the characters but GlobalPhreak confesses to enjoying how "grounded and touching their stories were."
The '80s scenes are welcome breaks from the high-octane action. It's during these scenes that the movie is at its storytelling peak. The reason for the rivalry is explained in detail, making it easier to understand the rest of the plot. F9 has a scarcity of emotional moments but luckily, there is one at the start of the film when young Jakob and Dom watch their father die in a car crash.
The Space Mission Plus Everything Related To Roman And Tej
According to Reddit user, retroX4, "Roman and Tej are the two best characters" in the franchise and they proved so again in this movie. The user singles out their banter for praise, especially Roman's analysis on the invisibility and immortality of the crew. The trip to space is also described as a strange and welcome high for the franchise.
Rumors of the franchise heading to space seemed like a joke a few years ago but it has finally happened. Though they depart Earth in a modified Pontiac Fiero, Roman and Tej's Yuri Gagarin moment isn't as ridiculous as audiences assumed it would be. Credit to the two for having the best brotherly bond since Dom and Brian.
Deckard Shaw's Cameo In The Post Credit Scene
The post-credits scene unfolds beautifully. Someone is throwing fists at a punching bag only for the camera to then reveal that it's none other than Deckard Shaw. Then someone knocks. It's Han, and Shaw looks like he has seen a ghost. This is a marvelous moment according to Reddit user 1random_redditor, and many fans agree.
During its lengthy running time, the movie ignores its spinoff and two characters that helped make it popular: Luke Hobbs and Deckard Shaw. It's a relief to finally see Deckard. Han waiting so many years to confront Deckard is one of the things that don't make sense about F9 but fans are glad that his feud with Deckard is finally getting addressed. More of that is expected to play out in either Fast 10 or Hobbs & Shaw 2.
The Focus On Cars
One of the things that impress Redditor Spacetime_Inspector·is the movie's keen focus on cars, compared to more recent installments, which have had prioritized espionage and fights. User iamaparade·adds that the director was actually mindful enough to "include a race," one of the things that made the franchise great.
It's indeed worth acknowledging that while catering for casual fans, Fast 9 doesn't forget the real car lovers. Over 24 different models are featured. There is even a Dodge Charger Hellacious that was made specifically for the movie. The directors of the Fast & Furious franchise always choose expensive cars and switch them frequently, adding to the overall glam of the proceedings.
Ramsey's Screentime
Ramsey is not just a hacker dealing with God's Eye this time. She's involved in the action and even gets to be a driver too. Reddit user Apathymonger admits they were "happy that Nathalie Emmanuel got more to do" and seeing how Ramsey influenced the proceedings more.
While being a talented hacker still suits Ramsey, her involvement in the Edinburgh chase scenes provides comic relief, a burden that has previously been placed on Tej and Parker. In a typical Fast & Furious way, she goes from not knowing how to drive to speeding through the streets. Given that the writers of the Fast and Furious franchise often neglect some of the best female characters, including Cipher, Ramsey's continued presence is definitely a necessity.
John Cena's Performance
Redditor HoldinCouFeel concludes John Cena's performance as Jakob Toretto is better than expected. On several occasions, the movies often see the villain reformed in some way - which happens with Jakob.
Good-guy Cena is still as interesting as bad-guy Cena. The WWE star has been slowly establishing himself as an action star. He has other major movies coming up and his performance here makes fans look forward to what's in store next. There will always be comparisons with Dwayne Johnson but Cena manages to differentiate himself by sticking to his strengths.
The Inclusion Of The Tokyo Drift Crew
Tokyo Drift characters Sean Boswell and Twinkie play a key role, helping Tej and Roman set up their rocket car. Reddit user Iveseenfootag3 likes the scenes involving the two. Han's return is also a welcome surprise. ·
The movie's overall nod to each of the past installments is something that's guaranteed to appeal to fans that have been there from the beginning. Hobbs is the only character that isn't acknowledged but audiences won't have a problem with that since he is expected to still be heavily involved in the franchise via the spinoff.
The Movie's Acknowledgment Of Its Own Cheesiness
One thing Redditor randomperson590·likes about F9 is that it doesn't deny the fact that it's cheesy. After Roman comes out with a scratch after being shot at by over 15 soldiers, he goes on to suggest that maybe the crew has special abilities.
The movie's self-acknowledgment helps by putting to bed all suggestions that the franchise it's realistic. Roman's monologue lets viewers know that the director and writers are doing it all on purpose. There is no need to be angry about it. The best way to enjoy movies like this is to just sit back and enjoy.