The Fast & Furious franchise has built a reputation for delivering thrilling, heart-pounding action through its high-octane stunts. What began as a street racing film in 2001 has since evolved into a global phenomenon known for its gravity-defying action sequences, daring car chases, and a sense of family that ties its eclectic group of characters together. Over the years, Fast & Furious has raised the bar for what audiences expect from action films, and its stunt work has become legendary. Let’s dive into some of the best stunt sequences from the franchise, highlighting the artistry and innovation that define the series.
1. The Vault Heist (Fast Five)
One of the most iconic scenes in the franchise is the vault heist from Fast Five. In this sequence, Dom (Vin Diesel) and Brian (Paul Walker) drag a massive bank vault through the streets of Rio de Janeiro, using two Dodge Chargers. What makes this scene so breathtaking is the practical effects used to film it. Instead of relying solely on CGI, the filmmakers built a functional vault and had it smashed through real buildings and cars. The level of coordination, precision driving, and destruction is mind-boggling, and the result is a stunt that is as thrilling as it is visually stunning.
2. The Plane Drop (Furious 7)
In Furious 7, the crew takes on one of the most audacious stunts in the series: dropping cars from a military cargo plane. This isn’t just CGI trickery; actual cars were dropped from a real plane, with parachutes attached to ensure a safe landing. The scene was shot with an incredible level of detail, using cameras mounted on the cars themselves to capture the action from every angle. It’s this kind of practical stunt work that gives the sequence its intensity and believability. The feeling of freefall is palpable, and watching the cars dive from the sky only to hit the ground running is an adrenaline rush like no other.
3. The Dubai Skyscraper Jump (Furious 7)
Another standout sequence from Furious 7 is the skyscraper jump in Dubai. In this jaw-dropping scene, Dom and Brian drive a $3.4 million Lykan Hypersport from one skyscraper to another, crashing through the glass windows of both towers. While some CGI was used to enhance the spectacle, much of the stunt was filmed using practical effects, including real car jumps and specially constructed sets. This scene pushes the boundaries of what seems possible, and it’s the sheer audacity of the stunt that makes it one of the most memorable in the franchise.
4. Submarine Chase (The Fate of the Furious)
The Fate of the Furious ups the ante with a wild chase on a frozen lake in Russia, where Dom’s crew must outrun a nuclear submarine. The scale of this scene is massive, involving numerous vehicles, explosions, and the looming threat of a submarine breaking through the ice. Despite the heavy use of CGI for the submarine, the practical effects and stunts involving the cars—especially when they dodge missiles and navigate through the icy terrain—ground the action in a sense of reality. The choreography of the cars and the timing of the explosions make this scene a standout for its sheer spectacle.
5. The Dam Jump (Fast X)
In Fast X, the franchise’s latest installment, the dam jump adds another layer to the ever-evolving stunt work. Dom drives his car off a dam to escape an explosion, and the stunt is equal parts absurd and breathtaking. The physics-defying nature of the jump is characteristic of the Fast & Furious franchise, where each new film pushes the boundaries of what cars (and their drivers) can do. While heavily CGI-enhanced, this scene still embodies the daring spirit that has made the franchise a fan favorite.
The Role of Fast & Furious Merchandise
The thrill of these high-octane stunts isn’t limited to the big screen. Fans of the franchise can bring a piece of the action home with a wide range of Fast & Furious merchandise. From die-cast models of the franchise’s iconic cars—like Dom’s Dodge Charger—to apparel that showcases favorite characters and quotes, Fast & Furious merchandise keeps the adrenaline pumping long after the credits roll. Collectibles such as action figures, posters, and even LEGO sets allow fans to immerse themselves in the world of Fast & Furious, recreating some of the most iconic moments from the series in their own way.
Conclusion
The Fast & Furious franchise has redefined the action genre with its blend of practical stunts and CGI wizardry, creating sequences that leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s cars parachuting from planes, racing between skyscrapers, or evading submarines, the stunts in Fast & Furious are nothing short of spectacular. And with the franchise showing no signs of slowing down, fans can look forward to even more adrenaline-pumping moments in future films. Until then, they can relive their favorite stunts through the ever-growing collection of Fast & Furious merchandise, which keeps the excitement alive.
