How every action film should be

Rating: 8/10 (5 December 2005)

Okay maybe every action film shouldn't follow the same plot but the spacing between action, yes. With a great cast Speed promises much and delivers a lot more.
After an intense starting with the rescue of hostages from an elevator set to explode by terrorist Howard Payne (Dennis Hopper), Officer Jack Travern (Keaunu Reeves) and his partner Det. Harry Temple (Jeff Daniels) are out to stop the same terrorist who has now planted several bombs aboard a city bus. Jack is able to board the bus with some difficulty and must take command of the situation immediately while Harry relays information to him from the office.
As Jack tries to find a way to get the people of the bus, he is confronted with another problem. If the bus goes under 50 mph, the bus will explode. Taking the drivers seat after the bus driver is accidentally shot is Annie Porter (Sandra Bullock) in the role that started her career. Now, along with Harry and the bus occupants, Jack must figure out a way to outsmart the terrorist and save the people aboard int his deadly cat-and-mouse game.
Reeves is perfect for the role of Jack. He is smart, strong, and ever clever in his attempts to save people. Daniels creates the smart and ever reliable relief with a few words of caution and advice here and there. Even with Reeves and Daniels, Hoopers takes the cake as the best character, both in acting and in character. He's cunning, he's ingenious, and he is always ready with a smart remark.
Unlike the Stephen Seagal films with every minute being filled with punches, shotgun blasts, and hand to hand combat, Speed is able to filter the action to when it is needed. The film is an action film but plays a lot on that of a thriller with buses speed always getting just close enough not to blow. The film works well and is one of the best action films out. With Reeves, Daniels, Hopper, and Bullock how could you go wrong?
Speed. Starring: Keanu Reeves, Dennis Hopper, Jeff Daniels, and Sandra Bullock.
4 out of 5 Stars.