Review of Speed (1994) by Otav — 16 Sep 2019

Director Jan de Bont’s action-movie “Speed” is nothing besides an outstanding film that tells the story of characters trapped in a bus being driven by Annie Porter (Sandra Bullock) while a cop called Jack Traven (Keanu Reeves), is tryng to disarm a bomb in the vehicle. One of the greatest points of the movie are it’s characters, wich, even tought being both extremely charismatic and skilled, on the end of the day are just common people trying to outcome an uncommon situation. The characters decisions and attitudes are generally understandable and believable, even tought their respective arcs somehow manage to be gripping, on their own ways. Bont also delivers a truly impressive artwork with the action scenes, leaving the spectator on the edge of his seat the whole movie and provoking a lot of anxiety.

The big selling point of the movie, although, isn’t the villain, Howard Payne (Dennis Hopper), wich shows a giantic lack of charisma. The movie’s antagonist simply can’t convince anyone with his motivations either, he is an ex-officer that is revolted by the fact that, even dedicating years to the Police Department, didn’t get rich.

There isn’t any word that can describe this incredible masterpiece better than “breathtaking”. The story, the casting selection, and the feelings that the spectators will experience during the filme, are just mesmerizing.