If anyone ever wondered if James Wan could excel as a director in a genre other that horror, FAST 7 comes as a resounding “Yes!” The 38-years-old filmmaker has crafted a phenomenal piece of entertainment that is funny, tense, and spectacular.

Wan himself felt in a roller coaster ride while making this beast of a movie. I talked to the talented storyteller about his experience assembling FAST 7 and more in an exclusive interview.

How exciting was for you to be part of a defining installment in this franchise?

I feel very fortunate to be involved in this film. I am very thankful for having the opportunity to show that I am able to do other kinds of movies and not just the horror thrillers that people know me for. I am a big fan of action films and the Fast and Furious franchise, so it was really exciting. I tried to jump in with everything that I’ve got.

How did FURIOUS 7 changed you as a filmmaker?

With everything that I went through with this movie, the challenges to finish it, I feel that I went through the entire spectrum of emotions. Now I feel that I can tackle any movie that comes my way. I’ve never, ever, in my life experienced something as difficult as this film was. Let’s just say that I learned a lot with this film.

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Coming from the independent arena, did this experience change your perception of Hollywood blockbusters?

It’s funny. Most of the films that I have been successful with, are independent or small-budget studio films, but the filmmaking process is the same. Obviously, you have more freedom with independent movies, but you have less money to play with. You may have a great vision but you don’t have the money to make it work. In a big movie you have the toys and the luxury of making things happen, but your voice is a lot less heard. There are a lot of calls that you have to answer to, so creatively it’s less. It’s a fine balance, the ideal thing would be to do a movie with the best of both worlds. I have respect for both kinds of filmmaking. I knew I was going into a movie that was number seven in a franchise, that a lot of people were involved in and that the machine was already well oiled. But, it’s not different from other directors coming in to direct my “Saw” sequels. Right now I am on the other side of the equation so I try to be respectful.

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I grew up surrounded with movie posters for “Commando,” “Robocop 2,” etc. How do you feel knowing that kids will grow up with “Furious 7” stuff?

I am a fan myself. I am talking to you while I am looking at a Robocop collectible figure in front of me. I have seen fans of “Saw” with incredible tattoos. It is amazing to see the impact of your work in other people’s life. I always keep that in mind while creating something.

I am curious about your take regarding the so-called “superhero fatigue” that some insist that will arrive soon.

People have said to me many times that horror was dead, but it’s all about quality. As long as Hollywood keeps making good movies of a certain genre nobody will get tired.

#FURIOUS7 will be released in theaters on April 3.

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Continuing the global exploits in the unstoppable franchise built on speed, Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast of Fast & Furious 7. James Wan directs this chapter of the hugely successful series that also welcomes back favorites Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Elsa Pataky and Lucas Black. They are joined by international action stars new to the franchise including Jason Statham, Djimon Hounsou, Tony Jaa, Ronda Rousey and Kurt Russell. Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel and Michael Fottrell return to produce the film written by Chris Morgan