Hitting a billion is still somewhat of a big deal since only one managed it last year and there have only been 20 movies that have done it so far.  But this year its not that big of a deal since there will probably be five movies that will do it.

Furious 7 will make over a billion just overseas which will make it the third highest grossing movie overseas before Avengers 2 knocks it down a spot to fourth.

Furious 7 is making enough that it there is a good chance that it stays ahead Avengers.

Ahead of Age of Ultron ?

Yes (I'm talking about overseas).

I'm really pissed off Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 beat out Unfriended.

I had no idea how big the Furious films were, maybe because I only saw the original and don't know anyone that cares about them. I never anticipated it to become on of the top ten grossing films of all time and the highest grossing film in China ever.

What was the production cost on this latest one? I can't imagine they won't make an 8th and 9th one with this much money to be made.

According to imdb.com - an estimated $190 million. $30 million above the previous installment's budget.

Thank you.  I would guess an 8th is guaranteed then given how much profit they've already made on this one.  Was the actor who passed critical in a way that say a Johnny Depp is to the Pirates of the Caribbean films?

Not at all. Before his death his role was hardly considered more relevant than additional. Thank the media for making you believe otherwise though.

P.S. : Then again... you could place that statement next to any character name in the movie. The franchise is not about the characters... it's not about the story... it's just about giving you a mindless good time. Think about Call of Duty's singleplayer. Well.. the latest COD games' singleplayer anyway.