The Fast & Furious franchise boasts a staggering number of films, captivating audiences worldwide with its high-octane action and themes of family. As of today, there are 11 mainline Fast & Furious movies officially released, plus one spin-off film, Hobbs & Shaw.
The Mainline Movies: A Chronological Journey
The core of the Fast & Furious experience lies in its ongoing saga, a tapestry woven with intricate plotlines, character development, and of course, those signature adrenaline-pumping sequences. Let’s take a quick look at each of the 11 mainline films in release order:
- The Fast and the Furious (2001)
- 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003)
- The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006)
- Fast & Furious (2009)
- Fast Five (2011)
- Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
- Furious 7 (2015)
- The Fate of the Furious (2017)
- Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019) – Spin-off
- F9 (2021)
- Fast X (2023)
- Fast & Furious 11 (Scheduled for 2025)
It’s important to note the somewhat convoluted chronological order. While the release order is what most people are familiar with, the in-universe timeline jumps around a bit.
Beyond the Mainline: The Spin-Off Factor
The Fast & Furious universe isn’t confined to the core films. Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019) represents the first major spin-off, focusing on the unlikely partnership between Dwayne Johnson’s Luke Hobbs and Jason Statham’s Deckard Shaw. While not part of the numbered sequence, it firmly expands the franchise’s reach and introduces new storylines. This film is considered canon within the Fast & Furious world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Fast & Furious Franchise
Here are some of the most common questions people have about the Fast & Furious franchise, addressing everything from the correct viewing order to potential future installments.
FAQ 1: What is the correct order to watch the Fast & Furious movies?
While release order is common, a more chronological viewing order that respects the in-universe timeline is:
- The Fast and the Furious (2001)
- 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003)
- Fast & Furious (2009)
- Fast Five (2011)
- Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
- The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006)
- Furious 7 (2015)
- The Fate of the Furious (2017)
- Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)
- F9 (2021)
- Fast X (2023)
Tokyo Drift is placed later in the timeline due to events and character appearances that occur later in the series.
FAQ 2: Is Hobbs & Shaw considered a Fast & Furious movie?
Yes, Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw is a spin-off film firmly set within the Fast & Furious universe. While it doesn’t feature the entire core cast, it explores the adventures of two prominent characters and acknowledges the established canon.
FAQ 3: Will there be any more Fast & Furious movies after Fast X?
Yes! Fast & Furious 11 is confirmed and planned to serve as the concluding chapter to the main saga, currently slated for a 2025 release. There is also the possibility of future spin-offs after the main saga concludes.
FAQ 4: Who are the main characters in the Fast & Furious franchise?
The core cast includes Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel), Brian O’Conner (Paul Walker), Letty Ortiz (Michelle Rodriguez), Mia Toretto (Jordana Brewster), Roman Pearce (Tyrese Gibson), and Tej Parker (Ludacris). Many other recurring characters have become integral to the franchise as well.
FAQ 5: What is the overall theme of the Fast & Furious movies?
The overarching theme is family. While the films are known for their action and car stunts, they also emphasize the importance of loyalty, friendship, and creating your own chosen family.
FAQ 6: Where can I stream or rent the Fast & Furious movies?
The Fast & Furious movies are available on various streaming platforms like Peacock (owned by NBCUniversal), and can be rented or purchased on services like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV, and Vudu. Availability may vary depending on your region.
FAQ 7: What makes the Fast & Furious franchise so popular?
The franchise’s popularity stems from a combination of factors: the exciting action sequences, the relatable themes of family and loyalty, the diverse cast of characters, and the constantly escalating stakes and over-the-top scenarios.
FAQ 8: What happened to Paul Walker in the Fast & Furious movies?
Paul Walker tragically passed away in a car accident in 2013 during the filming of Furious 7. The film was completed using CGI and body doubles, and his character, Brian O’Conner, was given a respectful and emotional farewell.
FAQ 9: Are there any plans for more spin-offs after Hobbs & Shaw?
While nothing is officially confirmed beyond the conclusion of the main saga, there have been discussions about potential spin-offs focusing on other characters within the Fast & Furious universe, particularly the female characters.
FAQ 10: Is there a connection between the Fast & Furious movies and other films?
The Fast & Furious franchise is primarily self-contained, with few explicit connections to other film franchises. However, the success of the franchise has influenced the action genre as a whole.
FAQ 11: How much has the Fast & Furious franchise grossed worldwide?
The Fast & Furious franchise is one of the highest-grossing film franchises of all time, having earned billions of dollars worldwide. Each installment continues to be a major box office draw.
FAQ 12: Why are the Fast & Furious movies so unrealistic?
The Fast & Furious franchise intentionally embraces over-the-top action and increasingly improbable scenarios. This is part of its appeal and allows the filmmakers to create visually stunning and entertaining sequences that prioritize spectacle over realism. The franchise has developed a self-aware tone, acknowledging and celebrating its absurdity.
The Future of the Fast & Furious Saga
As the main saga approaches its conclusion with Fast & Furious 11, the future of the Fast & Furious universe remains open. The possibilities for spin-offs, prequels, and even television series are vast, ensuring that the spirit of family and fast cars will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come. While fans await the final chapter of the main saga, the existing 11 (plus one spin-off) films provide ample opportunity to revisit the thrilling world of Dominic Toretto and his crew. The enduring popularity and continued expansion of the franchise solidifies its place in cinematic history.