Review: ‘Need for Speed’ is fun, but story problems keep it from high gear

Posted on March 21, 2014

When it comes to racing movies, I have a simple test. Upon leaving the theater after seeing one, how hard is it to keep to the legal speed limit while driving home? The harder it is, the more enjoyable the movie was.

In the case of “Need for Speed,” the racing/revenge film based on the venerable video game series of the same name, it was a definite challenge. Looking back on the film in retrospect, it has quite a few story problems, but as for high-octane chase and race sequences, it delivers in spades.

I’m torn on “Need for Speed.” As I said, it definitely passed my typical test for such films. As the days have passed however, the more plot holes come to me. “Need for Speed” is good popcorn fun with some really good race and chase sequences which are just about worth the price of admission despite the story problems.

I never expected “Need for Speed” to have a lasting impression and honestly it doesn’t. But I did enjoy it while I was watching it, so if you want fast cars, fun races and a likeable group of characters, you’ll have a enjoyable 130 minutes. Otherwise, there are better options out there.
If you do go see the movie, just be careful driving home.

The movie is rated PG-13 for sequences of reckless street racing, disturbing crash scenes, nudity and crude language.

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