After the resounding billion-dollar success of Furious 7, Universal Pictures practically green-lit Fast and the Furious 8 right away. The Fast and Furious 8 is set for a release date that a year-and-a-half from this writing, but there are all sorts of rumors about the cast, story, and even some hint of prequels, spin-offs, and sequels.
The issue that is difficult to deal with in Furious 7 was the death of Paul Walker, as it was one elephant in the room that just couldn't be ignored and sparked a lot of re-writes for the last movie. With the late actor's brother, Cody Walker, as a stand-in, Universal was able to complete the film and give Walker's character a good send-off. There are rumors that Brian O'Conner could appear in Furious 8 through CGI effects or some flashback scene. However, it is reported that Cody Walker will not have a role in the next installment, so perhaps this will not occur.
Many wondering what the Fast and the Furious 8 will be about, apart from the involvement of O'Conner. According to CinemaBlend, at least part of the story of Fast and Furious 8 will probably be based around Kurt Russell's character, Mr. Nobody. The veteran actor was introduced in the last film, and it looks like Vin Diesel has even mentioned Mr. Nobody on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in connection with Furious 8. Considering this character is shrouded in mystery, there is a lot that can be done with him.
Most of the rumors about Furious 8 all seem to agree that the story is going to take place in New York. According to EnStarz, Neil H. Moritz, the movie producer, has revealed that the upcoming Fast and Furious 8 will be more "character-centric." In fact, Jason Statham could return as Deckard Shaw, but this time might be working with the good guys instead of the bad. There is even a rumor that Angelina Jolie will be showing up, but this has not been confirmed. There are also reports that Diesel has approached Helen Mirren during the filming of The Last Witch Hunter to see if she wanted to join the crew.
What looks to be confirmed is the director as IMDB states that F. Gary Gray is set to direct the next what is Universal's biggest franchise, next to the Jurassic one. The director is known for other car-driven films like 2003's remake of The Italian Job as well as action and character driven films like The Negotiator.
The Fast and Furious 8 will be speeding its way into theaters on April 14, 2017. Of course, with a franchise this big, there is a possibility that this will be the beginning of more films. According to Master Herald, Diesel has stated that Furious 8 could be the start of a trilogy, and he is not against the idea of a prequel or spinoff.
