Followers know a number of particulars about Quick & Livid 11 at this level, together with the truth that it may very properly be the ultimate installment in Common Photos’ high-octane blockbuster franchise. And as of late, Vin Diesel and the forged have mentioned the franchise’s conclusion. For them, the film will mark the tip of a cinematic journey, which has spanned a long time. One of many collection’ OGs, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, spoke with CinemaBlend about saying goodbye to this blockbuster behemoth of an IP. On the similar time, he additionally opened up about his largest aim for the upcoming movie.
Ludacris made his first look as Tej Parker in 2003’s 2 Quick 2 Livid, with the character being established as a race host and buddy of Brian O’Conner. The A-lister was then absent from the franchise for a number of years, earlier than Parker resurfaced in 2011’s Quick 5. Since then, he’s popped up in all the movies and has turn out to be a core a part of Toretto’s crew. His destiny – together with these of a number of others – is left unclear by the finish of Quick X (which left followers with questions on FF 11). Nonetheless, it’s greater than honest to imagine that he’ll pop up once more for the gang’s final journey.
With that in thoughts, I couldn’t assist however ask the “Cash Maker” performer in regards to the beloved, automobile-infused collection once I spoke to him (and Lil Rel Howery) in promotion of their new film, Dashing Via the Snow. I particularly requested the entertainer if he’s ready to bid farewell to Tej, and his response may shock you:
Man, pay attention, I ready myself to say goodbye after 2 Quick 2 Livid, the one one I used to be in, after which we got here again for five, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
Primarily based on his feedback, the fan-favorite entertainer didn’t even consider he was going to return after his first outing on this fictional universe. So every part since has just about been the icing on the cake for him. He’s all the time appeared to understand what these films have carried out for his profession. And that’s most likely why at his Hollywood Stroll of Fame ceremony earlier this 12 months, he spoke about how Vin Diesel and Quick modified his life. Along with asking about saying goodbye, I used to be additionally wanting to get his ideas on his essential aim for the eleventh film, and it appears he is aware of precisely what he needs:
My aim, irrespective of what’s going on, is to all the time give one thing to the viewers that they do not know about Tej so that you just proceed to study one thing new about him. And if we’re not in a position to develop the character, then I really feel like my job there isn’t any longer crucial. And by chance, we now have been in a position to present one thing exterior of what you already knew about him in every movie. And in order that’s how I really feel, man, and I like that he continues… He simply progresses each single time. No person knew he may struggle, , he began whooping ass after a sure period of time. So it is only a lot that you do not know that you just’re beginning to discover out.
You may’t argue with Ludacris’ need to have his character proceed to develop in attention-grabbing ways in which preserve audiences invested in his journey. It’s additionally been enjoyable to see how Tej has developed since his inaugural look. I’m undecided how many individuals would’ve pegged him for being one of many Toretto crew’s resident tech geniuses, however he’s certainly integral to their trigger in that regard. And because the Hustle & Move identified, the person has additionally proved that he’s greater than formidable in a struggle.
Quick X noticed Parker working alongside his allies amid their struggle towards the devious and unpredictable Dante Reyes, who sought revenge on Dom for the demise of his father. On the similar time, Tej, Han Lue, Ramsey and Roman Pierce attempt to evade the authorities after the staff was framed for a bombing in Rome. Within the last scene, the quartet arrived by aircraft to help Dom, although the plane was shot down by crooked enforcement official Aimes. Their fates stay unsure on account of that cliffhanger, and plenty of are absolutely ready anxiously to learn how that narrative thread is resolved.
Within the meantime although, it sounds no matter what occurs, Ludacris might be ready to say goodbye to Tej Parker at any time when that second arrives. It’ll be thrilling to see how the character’s arc in the end concludes, and I hope the hip hop veteran’s goal so as to add extra layers to Tej pans out.
The Quick & Livid films are at the moment streaming on numerous platforms, and the eleventh installment is at the moment slated to journey into theaters on April 4, 2025. It’s also possible to stream his newest title on the schedule of 2023 new film releases, Dashing Via the Snow, utilizing a Disney+ subscription.
