Taxi 4, released in 2007 and directed by Gérard Krawczyk, continues the chaotic legacy of Marseille’s fastest taxi driver. The film blends action, crime, and comedic absurdity in the familiar French style built by writer-producer Luc Besson.
Detailed Summary
Welcome Back to Marseille
Daniel Morales, a speed-obsessed taxi driver, is living his usual life in Marseille with his beloved super-charged white Peugeot. Meanwhile, his best friend, police officer Émilien, continues to be hilariously incompetent at his job. Their friendship remains the heart of the movie: a genius behind the wheel paired with a clueless cop who relies on him far too much.
The Belgian Criminal Who Outsmarted Everyone
The story revolves around a dangerous criminal, mistakenly underestimated by the police because of his innocent looks. He is supposed to be kept under high security before extradition, but the Marseille police force—mainly Émilien—falls for the criminal’s intelligence. The criminal cleverly manipulates Émilien and escapes, dragging the whole police department into chaos.
Daniel Joins the Hunt (As Always)
After the embarrassing escape, Émilien faces suspension unless the criminal is caught. Daniel jumps in as the “unofficial police partner,” and the two chase the criminal across roads, highways, and even the streets of Monaco. The Peugeot returns with upgraded racing features, including epic rally-style transformations, making the chase sequences stand out as the most entertaining parts of the film.
Misunderstandings, Speed, and Ridiculous Plans
As the criminal attempts to flee Europe, the duo must solve the puzzle of how he escapes security every time. Their plan involves trickery, risky driving, impersonation, and especially Daniel’s unprecedented racing maneuvers. The comedy relies heavily on the stupidity of the police and the over-the-top brilliance of Daniel’s driving.
Movie Ending
In the final act, the villain tries to escape to Africa via a private jet, believing he has the perfect plan. Daniel and Émilien manage to track him to the airport, where one last insane chase begins. Using Daniel’s ultra-fast taxi, they intercept the plane as it begins to take off.
Daniel accelerates so powerfully that he ends up racing on the runway alongside a jet, forcing the aircraft to halt. The criminal is captured in front of the stunned authorities, and Émilien is cleared of blame.
In the closing scenes:
- Émilien keeps his job and is praised for the mission’s success, even though everyone knows Daniel saved the day.
- Daniel returns to his normal life, proud but still unpaid properly for his help.
- The police continue to rely on Daniel, hinting that they have learned nothing and chaos will continue in their future.
The film ends on a humorous note that reflects the whole saga’s spirit.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
There are no post-credits scenes in Taxi 4. Once the main story ends, the film wraps up without teasing a sequel with an extra scene.
Type of Movie
This is a comedic action film with crime elements, driven by high-speed chases and humorous character interactions rather than dark storytelling.
Cast
- Samy Naceri as Daniel Morales
- Frédéric Diefenthal as Émilien Coutant-Kerbalec
- Jean-Christophe Bouvet as Commissioner Gilbert
- Emma Sjöberg as Petra
- Jamel Debbouze as A stupid employee at the police station
- Bernard Farcy as The comically incompetent Chief
Film Music and Composer
The soundtrack mixes upbeat electronic and urban music with dramatic beats for chase scenes. Kore & Skalp provided musical contributions, maintaining the cool, youthful tone that the franchise is known for.
Filming Locations
The film was shot mainly in Marseille and Monaco, with action sequences highlighting iconic areas:
- Marseille streets showcase Daniel’s chaotic driving style.
- Monaco adds luxury and tight turns perfect for speed chases.
- Airport runway scenes provide the explosive finale.
These locations are not just backdrops; they enhance the story by contrasting gritty Marseille energy with prestigious Monaco wealth.
Awards and Nominations
Unlike some major international productions, Taxi 4 did not receive notable award wins or nominations. It is more of a commercial comedy favorite, especially in France, rather than a critically decorated masterpiece.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The Peugeot used in the film was a highly modified real vehicle, not a CGI effect for most scenes.
- Some driving scenes demanded professional rally drivers, especially on the runway sequence.
- Frédéric Diefenthal performed several minor stunt scenes personally to keep the acting authentic.
- Gérard Krawczyk insisted on using extensive practical effects for car shots to maintain realism.
Inspirations and References
The film continues Luc Besson’s tradition of fast-paced French action comedies. It expands the style created in the earlier Taxi films, mixing police incompetence with underground heroism. No specific book was adapted, though the franchise is a reference point for later films like B13 and European racing comedies.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
Although no alternate endings were publicly revealed, several comedic bits were cut, mainly extended scenes involving police stupidity. Some ad-libbed moments reportedly slowed pacing and were removed for timing reasons.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The Belgian criminal manipulates Émilien using fake innocence.
- Daniel’s taxi transforms into a race-car mode during high-speed pursuit.
- The runway chase against a departing airplane.
Iconic Quotes
- “Do you call this secure custody?”
- “If the police drove like this, we’d never need help.”
- “Don’t worry, I’m a professional. Kind of.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The number plate on Daniel’s taxi contains subtle references to the first Taxi film.
- Posters in police headquarters feature characters from previous movies.
- Brief cameo clothing styles reference hip-hop trends promoted by Luc Besson productions at the time.
Trivia
- The film was a big hit in France despite moderate box-office numbers internationally.
- Jamel Debbouze’s character was written to return after fans loved him in Taxi 3.
- Cars were destroyed during filming; most were real rather than props.
Why Watch?
This film offers fast cars, absurd humor, and a stylish portrayal of Marseille. If you appreciate car chase action mixed with light-hearted stupidity, this is an entertaining ride.
Director’s Other Movies
- Taxi 3 (2003)
- Fanfan la Tulipe (2003)
- Wasabi (2001)
- Taxi 2 (2000)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Taxi (1998)
- Taxi 2 (2000)
- Taxi 3 (2003)
- Taxi 5 (2018)
- District B13 (2004)
- Wasabi (2001)
