Dwayne Johnson leads Billy Bob Thornton and Oliver Jackson-Cohen in Faster, a thrilling action film about revenge, payback and unfinished business. Each character is powerful and classic in their story and their relation to the ultimate ending.
Johnson’s character, James “Driver” Cullen, doesn’t talk much when trying to avenge the wrongful death of his brother. Recently released from prison, he’s set on catching five individuals after 10 years out of the loop. While keeping up with a murder to-do list, he catches up on his love life and the family he could’ve had before becoming locked up.
Oscar-winning actor Thornton depicts a crack-addicted cop. He picks up a case 10 days from his retirement and annoys his partner with his tardiness and inconsistency. His partner isn’t the only character upset with his immature antics—his ex-wife, whom he shares joint custody of their chubby son with, is absolutely tired of his drug addiction and is threatening to take full custody. It’s apparent that the endangered absence of his son is the only way that he will clean up his act.
Killer (yes, his name is Killer) is portrayed by acting rookie Jackson-Cohen. His character makes a living as an independent hit man. Currently seeing a psychiatrist, taking medication and in a serious relationship with a blonde that love his guns (literally), Killer wants to settle down and start a family after this last job—which is to kill Driver.
Interestingly, this movie and its murders are grounded by the concept of family. Each character’s endeavors are related to their passion and commitment to family. It’s easy while watching to miss this concept and get wrapped up in the bullet exchanges and reckless driving, but once you leave the theater, it hits you.
Faster is packed with suspense and a seemingly never-ending plot. The talented shooting of the film creates a 3D experience without the glasses, which really puts you on edge. Talks of a sequel are rumored, so you can only imagine the battles to take place for part two.
