The cast of the Fast & Furious franchise gathered for a midnight screening of the original film at the Cannes Film Festival on May 13, 2026 [2].

The event marks a significant milestone for one of the most successful film series in history, transitioning from a street-racing story into a global action phenomenon. It also serves as a public tribute to the franchise's late co-star, Paul Walker.

The celebration commemorated 25 years since the original film's 1998 release [1]. The midnight event brought together core cast members, including Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, and Jordana Brewster [1]. Producer Neal H. Moritz also attended the screening in Cannes, France [1].

Emotional moments defined the evening as the group honored the memory of Paul Walker. His daughter, Meadow Walker, joined the cast and production team on the red carpet to commemorate her father's role in the series [1].

Vin Diesel was emotional during the proceedings as he remembered his former co-star [1]. The screening took place during the festival's midnight slot, a tradition often reserved for high-energy or genre-defying cinema [2].

The gathering highlighted the enduring bond between the actors and the production team. By returning to the original 1998 film, the event emphasized the roots of the series before it evolved into the high-stakes espionage and heist narratives seen in later installments [1].

“The event marks a significant milestone for one of the most successful film series in history.”

The 25th-anniversary screening demonstrates the franchise's transition from a niche action movie to a cultural institution. By centering the event on the original film and the memory of Paul Walker, the studio reinforces the 'family' theme that has become the emotional core of the brand's marketing and longevity.