The visually stunning action sequences in “Monster Trucks” (2016) are likened to an explosive combination of the breathtaking speed of Fast & Furious and the fantastical, emotional elements of E.T. The movie delivers not only thrilling chases and aerial stunts but also depicts a heartwarming adventure between a young man and his extraordinary friend – an octopus-like creature with super speed, hiding within a monster truck.
Monster truck performing a stunt in Monster Trucks movie
To achieve authenticity and grandeur in the action scenes, the film crew collaborated with action coordinator Spiro Razatos, renowned for his work in action blockbusters like the Fast & Furious series and Captain America. Producer Mary Parent stated, “Spiro Razatos is one of the best in the business. From Fast & Furious to Captain America, nobody handles vehicle action better than him.” Razatos’s involvement guarantees the quality of the visual effects and the danger, and drama of the action sequences in “Monster Trucks.”
Action coordinator Spiro Razatos directing a scene on the set of Monster Trucks
Director Chris Wedge was determined to push beyond the limits of conventional visual effects, aiming for the most realistic scenes possible. Instead of overusing CGI for scenes of trucks climbing slopes or flying, he prioritized executing dangerous stunts practically. The journey to return Creech, the monster creature, home is described by director Chris Wedge as a subtle blend of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Fast & Furious, creating a story that is both heartwarming and full of breathtaking action.
Director Chris Wedge on the set of Monster Trucks
“Monster Trucks” is not only visually stunning with impressive visual effects and modern CGI technology, but also promises to deliver an emotionally resonant adventure for audiences. The film features a talented cast familiar to Vietnamese audiences, including Lucas Till, Jane Levy, Barry Pepper, Thomas Lennon, Rob Lowe, Danny Glover, Amy Ryan, Holt McCallany, and Frank Whaley. Under the direction of Chris Wedge, and an experienced production team including Cale Boyter, Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger, and producers Mary Parent, and Denis L. Stewart, the film is based on a screenplay by Derek Connolly.
Movie poster for Monster Trucks featuring the main cast
Action scene coordinator Spiro Razatos, who contributed to the success of the Fast & Furious and Captain America series, played a crucial role in perfecting the action visuals for “Monster Trucks.” The combination of modern visual effects and practical stunts promises a vivid and captivating cinematic experience.
Close-up of a monster truck wheel in action in Monster Trucks
“Monster Trucks” officially premiered widely in Vietnam on February 3, 2017, in 3D and 2D formats, with early screenings starting on January 29, 2017 (the 2nd day of the Lunar New Year). The film is an appealing entertainment choice for audiences who love action, adventure genres, and especially fans of monster trucks and the young, talented cast.
