'Oh sure. It's just like driving a really big Pinto'

Rating: Null/10 (24 May 2010)

They don't make'em like this today. 'Speed' is perhaps the last ultimate action movie that is pure action and tension. While nowadays movies mostly rely on CGI for cool action sequences, what one sees in 'Speed' is rather realistic because the said scenes were shot live action. The props, the stunts, the chases and the jumps were all fantastically done in live action and they keep the viewer riveted.
'Speed' is essentially an action thriller. There are plenty of explosions, chases, shootings and adrenaline to keep the viewer entertained. Then there's the tension that is excellently created as the film focuses on the bus and its passengers. The writing is good. The dialogues are witty and funny. The characters are well written and the story is engaging.
The acting is terrific. I don't think much of Keanu Reeves as an actor but here he suits the part very well. With her undeniable comic flair and a strong screen presence and charisma Sandra Bullock is a scene stealer and she has some of the best lines. Dennis Hopper is superb as badass Payne. Perhaps Payne is one of the most memorable bad guys of the 90s. Of the actors who play the passengers, Alan Ruck stands out as he adds more comic relief. Beth Grant typically plays the lady who gets everyone in trouble (the kind of role she's well known for). Joe Morton and Jeff Daniels are effective too.
'Speed' is one of the last pure action adrenaline movies. It's filled with energy, suspense, humour and sarcasm that make it throughly entertaining. Jan de Bont has done an incredible job here. Ah, what a pity they don't make them like this anymore!