Fast & Furious Icon Confesses Franchise Has "Lost Its Way" in Shocking Exclusive
Sung Kang, known as Han Lue in the Fast & Furious franchise, believes the series has strayed from its community roots and seeks to re-embed that spirit after his experience with the independent film "Drifter." His movie, a "love letter to the car community," was entirely supported by fans, offering a profound lesson in the emotional connection within the automotive world. Kang hopes to bring these insights back as he prepares to return for "Fast Forever."
The Fast & Furious franchise, known for its escalating stunts and global escapades, has seemingly drifted far from its humble beginnings in street racing. Sung Kang, a long-serving star of the series, believes the franchise may have "lost our way to a degree" and hopes to reintroduce the spirit of community that initially resonated with its global audience. After directing his deeply personal independent film, "Drifter," Kang has gained valuable insights into the profound connection shared within the automotive world.
Speaking at San Diego Comic-Con, Kang revealed that "Drifter" was crafted as a "love letter to the car community." This project, made outside the studio system, allowed him to witness firsthand the immense support and collaborative spirit that defines this group. He learned that the "Fast and Furious audience is the car community," a diverse and passionate collective that has consistently supported him throughout his career.
The production of "Drifter" heavily relied on this dedicated network. Kang explained that every aspect of the film, from its financing to the cars, locations, and drivers, came directly from the community. Eschewing computer-generated driving sequences, the film utilized entirely practical effects, with drivers from around the world bringing and building their own vehicles to contribute to the project. This collaborative approach extended even to the cast, emphasizing an ensemble and joyous spirit.
A poignant example of this community's support was the film's finale, shot at the birthplace of drifting in Englishtown. The track was generously donated by its owners, and a "bat signal" call for support brought an astonishing 12,000 people to participate as extras. Kang highlighted that such resources would be impossible to pay for with a typical independent film budget, underscoring the community's emotional investment in the project and its shared narrative.
The experience of making "Drifter" also deepened Kang's understanding of the emotional bond between the Fast & Furious franchise, its stars, and its audience, particularly in the wake of Paul Walker's passing. He recognized that the car community is not one-dimensional but comprises "three-dimensional people that lead with their heart," exhibiting surprising sensitivity, authenticity, and sincerity.
Kang is set to return to the Fast & Furious universe as Han Lue in the upcoming film, currently titled "Fast Forever," where he hopes to share the valuable lessons learned from his "Drifter" journey with the franchise.