‘Need for Speed’ Review: Zero CGI, All the Thrills

During the peaking moments of the most decisive race in stuntman Scott Waugh’s film “Need for Speed” Michael Keaton declares, “This is not only about racing” referring to some sort of transcendental importance given to this motorized match. To that I would have to say, sorry Michael but indeed the entire film is only about racing. However, that might be just fine. Although the conveniently placed emotional motivations of the characters’ don’t do much to imbue the plot with any sort of significance or profundity, they serve a practical purpose that doesn’t detract from the spectacle.

Apparently distressed because of a recent failed relationship and the impending possibility of losing his repair shop for not paying his rent, Tobey Marshall, played by Aaron Paul is the clear cut hero whose moral compass is somehow really grounded. But that doesn’t really matter, this guy needs a reason to start smashing cars, drive at insanely dangerous speeds, and get the girl. The mechanics of this film are as basic as can be, that refers to both the inner workings of the story and the characters themselves, who are, not surprisingly, mechanics themselves. The good guy is accused of doing something wrong, therefore good guy must reinstall his honor and avenge a fallen friend. As simple as that.

After earning enough money to keep himself afloat in an illegal race organized by underground veteran speed-junkie, “Monarch” played by the aforementioned Keaton, this young man is recruited by his long time enemy Dino (Dominic Cooper) to repair a mustang that will sell for stacks of cash. He and his buddies do an outstanding job and it sells, but Dino’s pride is hurt because no matter how much money he has he can never beat the superhuman driving abilities of Paul’s character.

One thing leads to another a din a deadly standoff on the road using insanely expensive vehicles, his buddy dies and he is blamed for it having to go to prison. As it is expected the man will come out and seek revenge utilizing the only weapon he knows- his car. That’s it. Now lets focus on the scattered interesting elements of this ever-predictable popcorn flick. Fist off the comedic banter between the bro-friendly protagonist and his squad of loyal accomplices.

As Benny, rapper turned actor Scott Mescudi – better known as Kid Cudi – is actually surprisingly charismatic and all-around entertaining to watch. Given, the brand of comedy utilized here is of a caliber that will appeal to the demographic that is most likely to go see this: dude jokes about chicks and a sense of competitiveness taken to the extreme. Oh yeah, he is also a pilot that rescues Tobey Marshall from impending death. Ramon Rodriguez as Joe is sort of forgettable, while Rami Malek playing Finn (known for last year’s “Short Term 12”) is actually sort of brilliant in a particularly exposing office scene that is the comedic standout of the film.

Trying to be a tad forward and not drive the female audience away “Need for Speed” pretends to make a point that women also yearn for extravagant vehicles and reckless driving. Which is an entirely legitimate, and probably correct assumption, but to manifest that into a British girl who serves as the voice of reason doesn’t always function within this basic reality. Imogen Poots plays a car collector, who not surprisingly is attacked by Tobey’s mission, if one could call it that. The actress has proven to be talented in previous, more serious work, but except for a scene in which she actually drives the car, she is, for the most part, eye candy in a testosterone-fueled plot.

In all honesty it is hard to believe the lack of an intricate story or innovative character development will turn people away from the spectacle. The stunts are great, and that is something to grateful for. There is no CGI in the film, a fact that is extremely intriguing given the outrageous feats the cars perform. Aaron Paul’s gorgeous, custom-made, Mustang Shellby GT500 flies through the air and swims against incoming traffic with outstanding easy testifying of the stunt men’s incredible labor.

Lastly, the star of this video game-inspired bubblegum action movie, Mr. Paul is good in his part. The role doesn’t require a wide range of emotions, since Tobey is almost always blank-faced, yet in the limited poignant scenes he delivers. A great actor trying his luck at starring big budget films could really propelled even higher than what “Breaking Bad” has already done, but still he is cautious not to get swallowed by the Hollywood madness. Making smaller films in between these ostentatious works, it is safe to say he will remain versatile and talented.

It is not rocket science and will not become a classic, but the film succeeds at its minimal, moneymaking goals. Incredibly entertaining and banking on Aaron Paul’s momentum, “Need for Speed” is an astonishing parade of mind-blowing stunts and surprisingly funny performances. Delivers the thrills!

“Need for Speed” opens nationwide on Friday March 14th.