Billy Bob Thornton’s Action Thriller Redeems on Streaming After 16 Years
A decade and a half after its release, Billy Bob Thornton’s action thriller “Faster” has rediscovered its momentum on streaming platforms. The film, featuring Dwayne Johnson and Thornton, has emerged as a leading selection on Paramount+, recently ranking 10th among the platform’s top films in the United States.
Faster’s Streaming Success
As of January 23, 2023, “Faster” joined a competitive lineup of films on Paramount+, including “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” “Top Gun: Maverick,” and “The Running Man,” which currently claims the top spot. Despite a lukewarm reception during its initial theatrical run, the film’s resurgence reflects changing viewer preferences in the streaming landscape.
Film Overview
- Title: Faster
- Release Date: November 24, 2010
- Runtime: 98 minutes
- Director: George Tillman Jr.
- Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Billy Bob Thornton, Carla Gugino, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Maggie Grace, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje
Plot Summary
“Faster” follows a newly released criminal on a mission to avenge his brother’s death, all while being pursued by law enforcement. The film combines elements of classic action with a moral undertone, exploring the consequences of violence.
Box Office Performance
Despite its compelling premise, “Faster” struggled at the box office, grossing only $35 million against a budget of $24 million. Audience reactions were mixed, reflected in a 52% score on the fan-generated Popcornmeter and a 41% rating on the Tomatometer.
The 70s-Inspired Energy of Faster
Thornton has expressed admiration for “Faster’s” old-school approach to action filmmaking. In an interview with Vibe magazine, he noted that the film diverges from typical contemporary movies saturated with CGI. He stated, “People are saying ‘Faster’ is like a ’70s movie, and it kind of is.”
Thornton emphasized the film’s grounding in traditional storytelling, which reflects moral lessons rather than glorifying violence. He remarked that “Faster” avoids catering to the sensibilities of the video game generation, offering a narrative that reveals the dark realities linked to crime and violence.
Conclusion
“Faster” is now available for streaming on Paramount+. As it gains popularity years after its initial release, it highlights the evolving tastes of viewers and the enduring appeal of classic action narratives.
