Speed (1994)

Pop quiz, hotshot: What is long but fast-paced, exciting but a bit ridiculous? Answer: a speeding bus that’s able to jump a giant gap in a freeway without a ramp. Also, this movie. Down-to-earth Annie pairs well with Jack’s cheesy action-machismo, but there are still a few groaner moments (see the aforementioned gap jump), and while the thrills pile on in a wonderful way (“What, you thought you needed another challenge or something?”), 3 major set pieces (elevator, bus, train) is one too many.

6

Easy Rider (1969)

Two counterculture bikers travel from Los Angeles to New Orleans in search of America. (IMDb)

I read afterwards that Fonda and Hopper were drunk and high most of the time when filming this (writing it as they went) and you can tell, for better or for worse: In its camerawork and writing, it certainly carries with it a refreshing air of authenticity and spontaneity (the campfire discussions are both provoking–“They see a free individual, it’s gonna scare ’em”–and unexpected: “We blew it”), but it also often comes off as just plain lazy and pretentious (see the requisite drug trip scene).

6.5/10 (Alright)