Icons Unearthed

This billion-dollar blockbuster franchise begins with a magazine article that inspires Universal to make a movie about the underground world of illegal street racing.

After the success of "The Fast and the Furious," a sequel is imminent; Vin Diesel and director Rob Cohen are replaced by director John Singlton and rising star, Tyrese Gibson.

After the medicore reception of "2 Fast 2 Furious," Universal risks it all on a brand-new creative team, a younger cast, and a new kind of racing.

Universal breaks the mould; with bigger and better stunts, international locations and one of Hollywood's biggest stars, the franchise hopes the new direction pays off.

Halfway through filming, the ultimate tragedy takes place; the family pulls together to give their brother one last ride.

The tragic death of Paul Walker creates uncertainty for the future of the franchise; a feud between two cast members could cost them another star.