Hobbs & Shaw Review (3/5): Dwayne Johnson & Jason Statham's chemistry saves 'too sci-fi' Fast & Furious spin-off

The much-celebrated 'Fast and Furious' franchise is back with a bang as it's recent spin-off venture 'Hobbs and Shaw' has finally hit the theaters. As expected the film is a ravishing treat to fans ahead of the eighth installment of the film franchise. With Dwayne The Rock Johnson reprising his role as the ethical Hobbs and Jason Statham as the rogue American spy Shaw, the film showcases a 'biting chemistry' between of the actors who team up against Idris Elba's character in the film. The stunning star cast of the film has been creating a lot of buzz ever since the film was announced, and now when it's released, let's see what's it all about. 

Setting the scene 

Standing true to the notion of the 'Fast & Furious' franchise, the film stars with jawdropping action. It shows MI6 agent and Shaw's sister Hattie Shaw, played by Vanessa Kirby, getting hold of a highly contagious virus that has the potential to destroy the world and fleeing away with it from the site. To track her down and solve the case, the CIA appoints arch enemies Hobbs and Shaw. This, as expected, follows an epic-denial of the two to work as a team.

Plot 

However, not just Hobbs and Shaw, Idris Elba's character Brixton Lore, who is rogue MI6 equipped with cyber-genetic technology, is also behind the virus Hattie is possessing. Knowing that it is a really big threat to the world, Hobbs and Shaw agree to work together, however, their age-old tiff ensures a lot of hilarity along the way. 

Verdict  

While 'Hobbs and Shaw' is undoubtedly a great film to watch, it is not typically a 'Fast & Furious' installment. To be specific, it is somewhat too sci-fi for the 'Fast & Furious' world. However, it retains some of its basic elements like breathtaking car stuns, mindblowing actions and the celebration of family bonds. The nail-biting chemistry of Hobbs, the loyal agent of America's Diplomatic Security Service, and the lawless outcast Shaw, a former British military elite operative, is an absolute treat to watch, especially after their massive face-off in 2015’s 'Furious 7'.

The film also marks WWE champion Roman Reigns acting debut. While his screen timing is significantly less, seeing The Rock and him sharing screen-space is definitely a moment worth cheering. Vanessa Kirby is an absolute stunner. Despite having the mammoth Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham by her side, she manages to leave her impression. 

Moreover, Ryan Reynolds and Kevin Hart's interesting cameos are definitely worth the praise. Their hilarious on-screen presence is sure to tickle your funnybone. 

Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, Idris Elba, Vanessa Kirby, Helen Mirren

What works: Performance of the actors, mindblowing stunts, and the entire 'going old school' thing in Samoa. 

What doesn't: Not a typical Fast and Furious film, and 'saving the world' has become a cliché in Hollywood

Rating: 3/5