Episode 110: Fast Five

What this episode covers

Mi Familia, welcome to another episode of BIRD PROTOCOL! Today, we're shifting into high gear as we dive into the turbocharged world of "Fast Five” for PALMREADER’s birthday pick and the end of our unofficial summer blockbuster series. Released in 2011 and directed by Justin Lin, “Fast Five” stars a revved-up ensemble cast including Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Ludacris, Tyrese Gibson, Sung Kang, Jordana Brewster, and Gal Gadot.  Moving away from the street racing themes of the previous films, “Fast Five" takes us on a white-knuckle journey through the streets of Rio de Janeiro and deliberately shifts the franchise’s focus towards more standard action film tropes and sequences. Don’t worry, though, as there are still tons of cars. They definitely pull out all the stops for what was billed as “one last job”. Yeah, uh huh, sure Vin. Nonetheless, this is probably the pinnacle of the Fast & Furious franchise and we want to talk about it. Our favourite gearhead criminals turn the heist genre into a full-throttle spectacle by combining high-speed chases, mind-blowing stunts, unforgettable one-liners, and… of course… FAMILY. It’s a movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously. And it has some bald men squaring up and going gorilla mode on one another. Sick. In this episode, we talk about the film itself and why we love it, why the film’s lack of self-seriousness makes it so much better, meat claps, the practical effects, Vehicular Identification Number Diesel, the late Paul Walker, adding The Rock to the mix, and more. We also break down some of the most insane plot points, brainstorm an idea for a famous bald man fighting game, look back on the “Fast” franchise, discuss The Rock’s baby oil budget, unpack the impact blockbuster filmmaking has on local economies, and a whole lot more.  Seriously, “Fast Five” is a genuinely well-made action movie that is built on a foundation of practical effects, stunt work, humour, and charm. Sure, it has some potholes and borders on the absurd at times… but turn your brain off and just enjoy the ride. We close things out with a chat about Whensday’s new album “goingnowherefast”, how life finally feels like it is returning to normal, both of us booking some shows, the upcoming spooky season, and some other ramblings. So, buckle up, because we're putting the pedal to the metal. It’s the “Fast Five” episode, baby. INITIATE BIRD PROTOCOL! Follow us on Instagram! Instagram: @palmreadr @otismorrisdude

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