Anatomy of a Sequel

The New York Times‘ latest on the fourth Fast and Furious sequel has it all, from Vin Diesel’s highly-anticipated directorial debut:

Once on board each of the “Fast & Furious” stars found something to appreciate about the new film . . . Mr. Diesel was allowed to direct a short film, called “Los Bandoleros,” that sets up the story of “Fast & Furious” and may be included on its DVD release.

. . . to Michelle Rodriguez’s surprisingly reflective musings on the essential nature of action movies:

Ms. Rodriguez said she sometimes wondered whether audiences were drawn to the “Fast and the Furious” movies because of the actors or because of the cars. “You kind of feel in a sense that you’re a tool,” she said, “a tool for the character to do a bunch of really cool things, like doing stunts and killing people.”

. . . to hilarious hints of tension between the franchise’s two leading men:

There is now some good will going around the franchise, and the conclusion of “Fast & Furious” strongly implies that a fifth movie is planned. But true to form Mr. Walker and Mr. Diesel could not quite come to a consensus about teaming up on a new film.

“They’re already talking that we’re going to make a fifth one in Europe,” Mr. Walker said. He added, “I’m sure Vin’s going to be busy.”

Mr. Diesel did not disappoint. “You know my process is script first,” he said.

Given Mr. Diesel’s storied acting career, his discerning approach to selecting roles is hardly surprising.