'Fast and Furious 7' movie promises fans fantastic ride despite setbacks

The most anticipated installment of the "Fast and Furious" franchise is geared up to finally roll out to theaters after overcoming a number of challenging setbacks, including the death of one of the franchise's stars. Paul Walker met his demise in a tragic car accident while out on a casual drive with his friend in a race car. 

The tragedy occurred midway through filming, thus the production crew had to make drastic changes in the script and use extensive post production techniques to complete the film in Walker's absence. The late actor's brothers cooperated with the production team to bring all the efforts of the team to fruition. Peter Jackson's effects studio collaborated with the film during post-production to work on the scenes where the actor's presence was essential. Owing to these factors, production costs for the film reportedly surged upward to the tune of $250 million. 

Despite all these setbacks, the new trailer gives the impression that it was all definitely worth it all. "Furious 7" seems to be a slick entertainer promising viewers everything — and maybe more — than what fans are expecting from the hugely successful franchise. 

The trailer begins with Walker involved in some breathtaking stunts amid gunshots and explosions. Jason Statham, the main antagonist, is featured toward the end of the clip. Statham has his own cult fan following owing to his distinct brand of action, and he is expected to take the franchise to a whole new level. 

There has been a lot of rumors surrounding how Walker's character, Brian O'Conner, would be treated and how he would be sent off. It was initially believed that the character would be killed in a car crash; however, fresh reports indicate that is not the case. These reports suggest that Caleb, one of Walker's brothers, would be used to give the character a pleasant goodbye. Cody, the late actor's other brother, has reportedly been signed on for the next installment of "Fast and Furious" as a new character. 

Apart Walker and Statham, "Furious 7" also features the regular faces of the franchise, which include Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Ludacris, and Lucas Black. Tony Jaa joins the cast as one of the antagonists. 

Filmed extensively in Abu Dhabi and Los Angeles, "Furious 7" will be released in theaters on April 3. 

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