Fast and Furious 7 races past box-office records

If box-office success was any guide to Oscar wins, and many would argue that in recent years it has been, then Vin Diesel’s claims that the seventh in the speed-racing franchise was on its way to a big win next year shouldn’t be scoffed at.

Fast and Furious 7 has made a whopping estimated $143.6m in its opening weekend in America and $384m worldwide. That total is likely to increase even further when final figures arrive, but the sum so far already makes it the biggest April opening in the U.S. of all-time… and by some margin. Previous record holder Captain America: The Winter Soldier made $95m when it debuted last year.

The record opening also lands Fast and Furious 7 in ninth place in the all-time record domestic openings in North America, and is easily the best of the franchise so far.

The film’s release was delayed from last year when original series star Paul Walker died in a road accident. He had already shot most of his scenes, with computer effects and stand-ins completing the production.

Fans have been left in tears by the touching finale of the movie which pays homage to Walker.

Plans are already under way for more in the franchise. Fast and Furious 8 is set to take place on the streets of New York.