As the Fast & Furious franchise approaches its conclusion, Vin Diesel is optimistic about the return of Paul Walker in the upcoming Fast 11, potentially leading to Oscar recognition.
Vin Diesel Hopes to Bring Paul Walker Back in ‘Fast 11’
The Fast & Furious franchise is racing towards its conclusion, and Vin Diesel is still aiming for an Oscar at the finish line. During a recent appearance at Fuel Fest, an annual festival for car enthusiasts in Los Angeles, Diesel hinted at an April 2027 premiere for the 11th and final Fast installment, along with the potential return of his character Dom Toretto’s beloved sidekick, Brian O’Conner, originally portrayed by the late Paul Walker.
Diesel’s Conditions for the Finale
“The studio [Universal] asked me, ‘Vin, can we please have the finale of ‘Fast and Furious’ [in] April 2027?'” Diesel shared with the Fuel Fest audience. “I responded, ‘Under three conditions.’ First, we need to bring the franchise back to L.A.! Second, we must return to the car culture and street racing! Third, we need to reunite Dom and Brian O’Conner.'”
Movie Magic and Brian’s Legacy
This reunion would be made possible through movie magic — the same magic that allowed Brian to appear in 2015’s Furious 7 after Walker’s tragic death in a car accident during production. The team utilized a combination of existing footage, stunt doubles, and CGI to create a seamless appearance of Walker.
Weta Digital’s visual effects supervisor, Martin Hill, stated, “It was a general mantra that if we can get Paul in the film, let’s put him in there. It’s about respecting his performances and you can’t get more of his performance than what he’s actually done.”
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Oscar Aspirations
Furious 7 concluded with an emotional farewell between Dom and Brian, as the latter drove off into retirement, accompanied by Wiz Khalifa‘s “See You Again.” Diesel predicted Oscar glory for the film, saying, “This will win Best Picture.” However, it ultimately did not secure a nomination for Best Picture or Visual Effects, despite the outstanding work involved in honoring Walker’s legacy.
Will Brian’s return in Fast 11 finally fulfill Diesel’s Oscar dreams? Here are three reasons why voters might consider a VFX nomination, along with three reasons why they might hesitate.
Green Flags for Oscar Consideration
- Advanced Technology: The last decade has seen significant advancements in VFX technology, which could enhance Walker’s posthumous performance in Fast 11.
- Franchise Finale Recognition: Like Emmy series finales, Oscar voters may want to honor the Fast & Furious series for its nearly 30-year legacy.
- Tribute to Walker: A VFX nomination could serve as a tribute to Walker’s lasting impact on the franchise.
Red Flags to Consider
- Ethical Concerns: The film industry remains divided on the ethics of using digital technology to recreate performances of deceased actors.
- AI Controversy: The use of AI in VFX could lead to criticism rather than praise for the film.
- Fan Loyalty: Ultimately, fans of the franchise will support Fast 11 regardless of Oscar nominations.
