Speed is a 1994 American action thriller directed by Jan de Bont and starring Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock, and Dennis Hopper. The film follows a young cop named Jack Traven (Reeves) who tries to stop a bus from exploding with a busload of passengers on board. Speed was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $350 million worldwide and receiving positive reviews from critics.
Plot Summary
The film opens with Jack Traven, an LAPD cop, in pursuit of a mad bomber named Howard Payne (Hopper) in a high-rise building. Payne has planted a bomb in the building and demands a ransom, threatening to destroy the building. Jack successfully diffuses the bomb, but Payne escapes.
Later, Payne plants a bomb on a city bus and demands another ransom, threatening to detonate the bomb if the bus slows down below 50 mph. Jack, now a member of the bomb squad, boards the bus, which is now driven by Annie (Bullock), a passenger who volunteers to drive the bus after the driver dies of a heart attack. Jack and Annie must keep the bus moving at 50 mph to prevent the bomb from exploding. The movie takes the audience on a heart-pumping ride as Jack and Annie work together to outwit Payne and save the passengers.
Behind the Scenes Facts
- The bus stunt scene in the film was considered one of the most dangerous and expensive scenes in history. The scene took six weeks to prepare and involved a real bus rigged with explosives flying off an elevated freeway ramp and crashing into a building.
- Keanu Reeves performed many of his stunts in the film, including when he jumped from a helicopter onto the bus.
- Sandra Bullock was not initially interested in the role of Annie, but after reading the script, she was impressed by the character and decided to take the role.
- The bus used in the film was specially built for the movie and was equipped with a unique hydraulic suspension system to allow it to be lifted and moved for various shots.
- The film was shot in Los Angeles, California, and some of the iconic landmarks that can be seen in the movie include the Hollywood Freeway, Union Bank Building, and the Staples Center.
Critical Reception
Speed received widespread critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised the film for its non-stop action, tight pacing, and strong performances from the cast. Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times called Speed a “roller-coaster ride that never lets up,” while Peter Travers of Rolling Stone said that the film was “a tense, gripping, action-packed thriller that never lets up for a second.”
Many critics also praised the chemistry between Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock, with James Berardinelli of ReelViews saying they “are excellent together.” The film’s direction by Jan de Bont was also widely praised, with Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times calling it “the perfect summer action movie.”
Speed is a classic action-thriller film that remains just as thrilling and entertaining today as it was in 1994. Directed by Jan de Bont, the film showcases his mastery of suspense and action, making it a true masterpiece in the genre. With its fast-paced action, tight pacing, and strong performances from the cast, the film is a must-see for fans of the genre. Speed is sure to deliver whether you’re a fan of Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock, Dennis Hopper, or action-packed films. So sit back, buckle up, and enjoy the ride as this film takes you on a heart-pumping journey through the streets of Los Angeles.
Speed has become a cult classic over the years, and its influence can be seen in many action-thriller films that have followed in its wake. The film’s memorable dialogue and iconic scenes have become a staple of popular culture, and it continues to be a fan favorite over two decades later.
In conclusion, Speed is a must-watch film for anyone who loves action-thriller movies. Its unique storyline, fast-paced action, and memorable characters make it a true classic, and its impact on the genre continues to be felt today. So, if you haven’t seen it already, it’s time to buckle up and experience the thrill of Speed for yourself.
