Speed, the iconic action film starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock, has found a new streaming home this February. Fans of the action classic that shot Reeves and Bullock to stardom will be able to stream the movie on Max starting from today. Originally released in 1994, it became a major blockbuster, grossing over $350 million at the box office and winning two Academy Awards the following year for Best Sound and Best Sound Effects Editing.
The film was not only a commercial success but also received critical acclaim, boasting a 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Renowned critic Roger Ebert awarded it four out of four stars, praising the adrenaline-fueled storyline and dynamic performances. Directed by Jan de Bont, Speed also features a talented cast including Dennis Hopper, Jeff Daniels, Joe Morton, Beth Grant, and Alan Ruck.
Speed follows LAPD officer Jack, played by Reeves, who finds himself in a dangerous situation where he must board a bus rigged with a bomb connected to the speedometer. The stakes are high; one of the passengers, Annie, portrayed by Bullock, must take control of the bus after the driver gets shot by a panicked passenger. The relentless pressure demands that Annie keeps the bus moving above 50 mph, or else the bomb will detonate. This precarious scenario highlights the film’s thrilling premise and high-octane action.
In early 1994, a film trailer featuring this gripping premise debuted in theaters, captivating audiences with a suspenseful glimpse of the unfolding crisis. The trailer effectively set the stage for what would become a white-knuckle experience for viewers. Critics and fans alike were drawn to the concept—a bomb on a city bus that could explode if the speed dropped below a certain threshold—despite Reeves and Bullock’s limited experience in action films prior to this breakout role.
Speed quickly transformed into a worldwide cultural phenomenon, thrusting both actors into the spotlight and redefining the action genre. The film’s direct approach did not shy away from the suspenseful thrill it aimed to deliver from the very start, effectively keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. With its intense pace and gripping narrative, it was a must-see in theaters during the summer of ’94.
Despite facing competition from summer blockbusters like True Lies, The Mask, Forrest Gump, and The Lion King, Speed stood out as one of the defining movies of that year. Its straightforward, action-packed storytelling resonated deeply with fans who were eager for an exhilarating cinematic experience, confirming its place in the action film canon. Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock’s performances undoubtedly revolutionized the genre, leaving lasting impressions on audiences worldwide.
Reflecting on the impact of Speed, many viewers recall the anxiety that followed them whenever they rode a city bus, contemplating the harrowing questions its premise raised: “What if there were a bomb on board? How would I manage to keep this massive vehicle above 50 mph?” The film not only provided gripping entertainment but also ignited a fascination with thrilling action narratives that continues to influence the genre. Now, as fans can stream Speed on Max, it’s an excellent opportunity for both new viewers and those revisiting this thrilling classic to relive the excitement that Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock brought to the screen.