The First Movie in the Fast & Furious Franchise Returns to Theaters in June

15 years after the release of the first movie, Universal Pictures decided that it would be a very good idea to show The Fast and the Furious at select theaters in the U.S. on June 22, 2016. Until the release of Fast 8 in April 2017, this re-release will have to do.

With a budget of $38 million, director Rob Cohen hit the nail on the head with The Fast and the Furious. Earning $40+ million during the opening weekend is impressive enough. However, the most impressive thing about the first movie is that it’s inspired by a story published in the May 1998 issue of Vibe magazine. Titled Racer X, the story focuses on a newcomer to the illegal street racing scene. Cohen bought the rights to the story and the rest, as they say, is history.

During its run, The Fast and the Furious went on to gross more than $207 million. The unexpected success convinced Universal Pictures to continue the story of Brian O’Conner and Dominic Toretto. Albeit 2 Fast 2 Furious doesn’t feel right and Tokyo Drift is plain rubbish, the rubber-burning extravaganza propelled Vin Diesel and the late Paul Walker to international superstar status.

Feeling old yet? I do, especially when I watch the trailer for the first movie of the lot. When I think that Dom and his crew were hijacking semi-trailer trucks loaded with DVD players, I am reminded that 15 years is a long ass time. Oh well, time and tide wait for no man. These being said, I sure am looking forward to June 22 and some popcorn.

P.S.: When Furious 10 arrives in 2021, the high-octane franchise will be celebrating its 20th anniversary.