Review of Speed (1994) by David L — 02 Aug 2017

'Speed' may be a product of the 90s, what with it's giant mobile phones and use of VHS tapes, but action-wise, it's bang up to date. Crammed full of stunts, suspense and gung-ho nonsense, this may just be Reeves finest moment (in a fairly empty field admittedly) and is the one that introduced the world to the girl-next-door charms of Sandra Bullock.

Dennis Hopper plays an unhinged but ultra-smart ex-cop intent on a muti-million payout by any means necessary, including mass murder by elevator and bus. It's the latter that forms the bulk of the film, creating scenarios way beyond the wildest expectations of it's audience.

OK the film is shot through with implausibilities, but all the best actioners are, and more importantly, the leads, including the unfortunate Jeff Daniels, really make you believe and care about the entire scenario.

Best of all, it stands repeat viewings and is right there at the top of it's genre. Just brilliant.