Review of Speed (1994) by Lloyd H — 27 Jan 2013

Speed is one of the best action films of the 90's if not of all time. This was back when Keanu Reeves was cool and likeable and he is great in the leading role as Jack Traven. His dialogue at times is corny and dumb, but its well expected of Keanu and at the end of the day this film is popcorn fun that needs to be taken for what it is. Sandra Bullock is great alongside Keanu Reeves and she brings the high octagon mayhem back down to earth. She's likeable as always and is at times also good comic relief.

Dennis Hopper is the ultimate bad guy, he's ruthless, he's tough and he brings extra star quality to proceedings. For whatever reason I like Jeff Daniels, I loved him in Dumb & Dumber and although Speed is a totally different film, I completely bought his character and enjoyed his input. The supporting cast isn't the best, they take it in turns to say their lines and bar Alan Ruck who I loved in Ferries Bueller, the wrest are unknowns. Despite the supporting casts bad dialogue, overall I enjoyed their input and overlooked their faults.

For me the main star in this film is bus. Initially the concept of a bomb being on a bus doesn't sound particular exciting, but this is one of the most exciting films ever. From the moment Keanu Reeves is racing to get on the bus to the epic climax of the bus exploding into the plane I don't think I drew breath. All the events that take place whilst the bus is in motion are fast paced, exciting and intense. The set pieces are brilliant, from the bridge jump, to Keanu going under the bus to defuse the bomb whilst its in motion. This is an over used word to describe an action film, but Speed is a roller coaster. The opening sequence with the hostages in the lift is great, again complete excitement. And the end train sequence is great with Keanu Reeves and Dennis Hopper facing off against one another.

All credit has to go to Director Jan De Bont. His cinematography on the original Die Hard movie was great and his turn to Directing his own action feature is just as good. The set pieces, editing, effects and cinematography are stunning in this film and De Bont brilliantly crafts the ultimate action film. The steady cam shots are brilliant, in particular the opening scene when the cop car dives over the hill and the steady cam circles Keanu Reeves and Jeff Daniels get out the car and suit up ready for action. It's corny and glorified. But it's my favourite shot in the film and it kick starts a brilliantly well made film.

It's a shame Speed 2 was such a flop and if it had of been more successful I'm sure the franchise would of grown. Part of me would love a Speed 3 bringing back Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. But then again do we need it? I don't think so. Speed for me is up there with Die Hard and Lethal Weapon as some of the best action films, but I don't think any other action film comes close to the intense adrenaline rush experience of Speed.