Review of Speed

Introduction

LAPD cops Jack Traven (Keanu Reeves) and Harry Temple (Jeff Daniels) rescue a group of executives trapped in a sabotaged elevator, thus foiling mad bomber Howard Payne`s (Dennis Hopper) ransom demands. In retaliation, Payne sets a new challenge for Traven: a bomb on a city bus which will arm itself when the bus reaches 50mph, and which will explode if the bus drops below that speed or if any of the passengers try to escape.

The film is unique in the fact that it is set almost entirely on a bus, and its terrorist premise finds a special place nowadays.

It is best described as an all-out action flick, so hopes for depth or meaning are out of the window. Hold on to your seats..

Video

It is presented in 2.35:1 Anamorphic Widescreen, and the visuals are deep and well defined, with no compression signs visible. The print is crisp and clear therefore the transfer is too - with no dust nor grain evident. A trademark DVD transfer.

Speed is an effects-heavy film, and thankfully Jan De Bont`s directing is tense and sharp (the helmer will be seen next in Tomb Raider 2), meaning the various explosions and set-pieces find a real niche. Although some may be implausible (for instance the bus jump), there is no denying that this is one hell of a rush.

Audio

A DD 5.1 track is on offer, and the surrounds spring to life frequently, and to great effect. The range of the audio is the most impressive feature, and when you combine this with a crisp and clear main stream, you have yourself a great soundtrack. However, recent times have changed the term `reference quality`, so although this is very impressive, it isn`t the best.

The script is good as it does manage to tie in a bit of development and background to the characters, enabling them to have vendettas in which to act. As well as this, there is the odd bit of humour, and numerous revelations and intelligent set-pieces.

Features

All we get is a theatrical trailer, which is just not acceptable for the DVD format. Where is all the insight?

The menus are completely static, yet easy to navigate.

Conclusion

Worth watching for sheer enjoyment factors alone, the film is the kind of popcorn flick you can watch over and over again, and still enjoy it. Due to tense set-pieces, good direction, enjoyable performances and the odd surprise here and there, Speed comes recommended.

However, the disc itself lacks in one key area: the extra features area. Fortunately, 20th Century Fox have since released a special edition but that is little comfort to consumers who already own this version, such as myself.

The content alone is worth it if you can find this disc for a cheap price, otherwise go for the far superior re-release.