As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of one of the most iconic films of the 1990s, Speed, let’s take a look at why this film captured audiences’ hearts and minds. Released on September 30, 1994, Speed stands out as one of the most beloved action movies of its time, even as it faces both praise and criticism. Here’s why Speed became such a major hit, its impact on the careers of its stars, and how it was received in Romania. And yes, you can catch it today on Disney+.
A remarkable directorial debut
What may come as a surprise to many is that Speed was a directorial debut. Dutch filmmaker Jan de Bont, known for his work as a cinematographer on blockbusters like Die Hard, The Hunt for Red October, and Basic Instinct, made his directorial mark with this high-octane thriller. It’s worth noting that Speed became one of the most talked-about debuts of the ‘90s. Another director who made a similar splash during that era was David Fincher, who transitioned from music videos to directing Alien 3 in 1992.
Speed’s massive popularity
From the moment Speed hit theaters, it was an instant success. Critics and audiences alike were hooked by its fast pace, clever plot twists, impressive special effects, and strong performances. This immediate success was in stark contrast to The Shawshank Redemption, a film that struggled initially before eventually becoming a cult classic. With its thrilling narrative and relentless energy, Speed was destined for greatness from the start.
Despite a modest budget of $30 million, Speed grossed an astonishing $350 million worldwide. In Romania, it was released under the title Speed: Cursă infernală and was watched by an impressive 465,000 moviegoers over several months. It ended up ranking fifth in the box office that year, trailing behind hits like A doua cădere a Constantinopolului, True Lies, Jurassic Park (which premiered in Romania months after its global release), and Mrs. Doubtfire.
Behind the scenes: mistakes and magic
While Speed was a triumph, it wasn’t without its flaws. The film’s breakneck pace and quick-cut editing led to numerous continuity errors. IMDb lists hundreds of such mistakes, making Speed one of the most error-ridden films of the ’90s. A notable blunder occurs at the 42-minute mark when Annie, played by Sandra Bullock, struggles to reach the bus’s steering wheel because the wounded driver blocks her way. Miraculously, in the very next scene, he is inexplicably moved to a different seat.
Despite these hiccups, the film delivered one of the most memorable lines of the ’90s, shedding light on the stark contrast between wealth and madness. When Keanu Reeves’ character Jack calls the villain, Howard Payne (played by Dennis Hopper), insane, Payne responds with the biting line: “No, Jack. Poor people are crazy. I’m eccentric.” This sharp dialogue highlights the societal divide between being labeled eccentric versus crazy, based on wealth.
The boost to star power
Speed wasn’t just a box office smash—it launched careers into the stratosphere. For Keanu Reeves, it cemented his status as a Hollywood action star, paving the way for his iconic role in The Matrix franchise. Jan de Bont, who followed up Speed with another blockbuster, Twister, saw his career hit a rough patch after the disastrous sequel, Speed 2: Cruise Control. While the first Speed was a triumph, the sequel’s failure negatively impacted de Bont’s career. He directed only a handful of films after, including The Haunting and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life. The latter’s commercial failure put an end to the Angelina Jolie-led franchise.
As for Sandra Bullock, her rise to stardom after Speed needs no introduction. She went on to become one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, eventually winning an Academy Award for her role in The Blind Side.
Fact-check and trivia
- Release date: Speed was released on September 30, 1994.
- Director’s debut: Jan de Bont made his directorial debut with Speed, having previously worked as a cinematographer.
- Box office success: The movie grossed $350 million worldwide on a $30 million budget.
- Errors: Speed is listed as having hundreds of continuity mistakes, including the infamous scene involving the bus driver at the 42-minute mark.
Conclusion: A timeless action classic
Speed remains an action movie milestone that perfectly encapsulated the adrenaline-pumping excitement of the 1990s. Its impact on the careers of its stars, particularly Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock, cannot be overstated. The film’s unique blend of thrilling pace, explosive action, and memorable characters ensured its place as a classic of the genre. While the film had its flaws, its cultural impact endures, making it a must-watch for action fans even three decades later.
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