Universal Studios has announced that the latest installment in the long running franchise Fast and Furious 6 has reached the $500 million mark faster than any film in the studio’s history, no pun intended.
The film had an impressive debut in Europe and on opening weekend during the Memorial Day holiday in the US. The numbers continue to be impressive with earning of $180.3 million in North America and $342.2 million in international markets.
Fast 6 , as it is also known, passed the $500 million mark on Wednesday to the delight of Universal and it continues to hold the number one spot at the box office for the second consecutive weekend and beyond.
This was Universal’s highest grossing opening ever and the best in franchise history. The action flick, which explores vehicular warfare, was also very well received in Europe where it score the best opening ever for the studio in England.
It is no surprise since a large portion of the film was shot in London when Piccadilly Circus was closed to allow the cast and crew to film spectacular, never before seen car chases.
Director Justin Lin said during the press junket to promote the film before its premiere, that he was privileged to be only the third director who was allowed to film in the street of the English capital.
It is unusual for a franchise in their latter installments to do as well as Fast 6 is doing, but it is a testament to the dedication from the film’s producers, which include star Vin Diesel.
Believe it or not, a Fast 7 is in the works and according to Michelle Rodriguez it will start shooting in September. If you saw Fast 6, the ending told you all you needed to know about the future film.
With the permanent cast of Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Paul Walker, Ludacris, Tyrese Gibson, and Michelle Rodriguez fans are sure to keep coming back for more.
Fast and Furious 6 is currently playing in theaters everywhere.