Speed

LAPD SWAT officers Jack Traven and Harry Temple receive an urgent distress call. They are tasked with handling a dire situation involving a deranged bomber who has taken hostages in a Los Angeles skyscraper.

The bomber threatens to release the elevator's emergency brakes unless a ransom of $3 million is paid. Jack and Harry realize the urgency of the situation as the lives of the hostages hang in the balance.

Demonstrating quick thinking, Jack and Harry devise a plan to use a crane cable to support the elevator. Their strategy initially works, allowing the hostages to escape even after the bomber triggers the bomb.

Tension rises when it is revealed that the bomber is hiding in another freight elevator. In a desperate move, he takes Harry hostage, prompting Jack to shoot Harry in the leg to secure his release.

Following the harrowing incident, Jack receives commendations from Lieutenant 'Mac' McMahon while Harry is promoted to detective. However, they are unaware that the bomber is still at large.

The following day, Jack witnesses an explosion on a city transit bus, which tragically kills the driver. The bomber makes contact with Jack, revealing another bomb threat on a different bus.

As the bomber demands a ransom of $3.7 million, Jack navigates the chaotic freeway to intercept the rigged bus. He jumps onto the bus as panic ensues among the terrified passengers.

With the driver injured by a criminal, passenger Annie Porter steps in to take control. Jack attempts to reveal the bomb's presence to soothe the panic-stricken passengers.

Despite the challenges, Jack encourages Annie to maintain speed as they confront an incomplete freeway gap ahead. The tense moment culminates in a successful but narrow escape.

Meanwhile, Harry investigates and discovers that the bomber is a former police officer named Howard Payne. Tragically, he is outsmarted when Payne detonates his hideout, leading to Harry's demise.

At the airport, Jack secures permission to meet with Payne, believing it to be crucial to discuss the ransom. He remains anxious about what Payne might be planning and how he is monitoring the events.

In a tense moment, Jack attempts to disarm the bomb beneath the bus. After a series of setbacks and devastating news about Harry's death, he faces a fierce new challenge with time running out.

Payne tricks Jack into believing he's rescuing Annie, while she is actually fitted with an explosive vest. The chase takes them into the subway, introducing new layers of danger.

Jack confronts Payne in a final showdown atop a subway train. The dramatic battle ensues as he fights to free Annie from her explosive shackles.

In a breathtaking climax, Jack manages to derail the train and save Annie. They share a triumphant kiss amidst the shocked crowd, marking their escape from what could have been a tragic end.