How Brian’s FnF GT-R Was Almost a Neon SRT-4
The influence of movie cars on the car community is truly remarkable. The impact can shape enthusiasts’ preferences and even elevate certain car models to iconic status. A prime example of this phenomenon lies in the aftermath of the first “Fast and the Furious” movie, where the Toyota Supra became a symbol of automotive desire.
As the sequel rolled in, the anticipation for new rides gripped fans. The choice of cars for the main characters is pivotal, as each machine possesses its own distinct personality, capable of steering a character’s narrative in different directions. A wrong choice could spell trouble for the character’s trajectory.
In the second installment, Paul Walker’s character, Brian O’Conner, eventually found himself behind the wheel of a 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R. Once again, the car selection resonated with fans, and the Skyline garnered a considerable following. Unlike the Supra, however, obtaining a Skyline in the United States proved more challenging, adding an extra layer of allure for enthusiasts.
It’s intriguing to consider an alternate reality where the Skyline never made it to the screen. What if Brian O’Conner had chosen a different car altogether? According to Craig Lieberman, the individual responsible for finalizing the movie’s car list, this was a very plausible scenario. Surprisingly, the studio initially intended to feature Brian in a Dodge Neon SRT-4.
While there’s nothing inherently wrong with the Neon SRT-4, it lacks the charisma and iconic status of the Skyline. Lieberman’s intervention in favor of the Skyline arguably saved the film series from taking a less exciting turn. Imagining Brian O’Conner navigating the streets in a Neon almost transports us to a parallel universe where the “Fast and the Furious” franchise might never have achieved its soaring success. Could this move have single-handedly saved one of the most profitable movie franchises of all time?
The video below provides a comprehensive account of how Lieberman’s crucial decision shaped the fate of the film series, emphasizing the profound impact that car choices can have on cinematic narratives and the automotive culture at large.
