Bullet Train Explosion

If you're looking a lazy afternoon-watch this weekend that doesn't want you to think too much, this Japanese-version of 'Speed' but on a Bullet Train might be worth considering.

The film was fairly decent until the major reveal that was not really convincing at all, but if you forceful yourself to apply the logic you often see in the news about 'bad actors', you could maaaaybe see why/how it all makes sense.

But like I said, if you don't want to think too much, or at all, this might be one of the decent films for this weekend, or even for passive viewing as you do the dishes or fold your clothes away. Could have been so much better but I didn't care that it was not that and it doesn't feel like a let down.

I just finished watching Netflix's new "Bullet Train Explosion" (2025) and couldn't help but notice all the comments claiming it's "just a Speed ripoff." Oh, sweet summer children of cinema...

For those whose film history knowledge apparently begins with Keanu Reeves, allow me to enlighten you: "Shinkansen Daibakuha" isn't copying Speed (1994). It's a REBOOT of the ORIGINAL "Shinkansen Daibakuha" from 1975 - a Japanese disaster thriller released NINETEEN YEARS BEFORE "Speed" even existed.

That's right. The "can't slow down or it explodes" concept that everyone associates with "Speed" was actually pioneered by this Japanese film starring Ken Takakura, Sonny Chiba, and other legendary Japanese actors nearly two decades earlier. The original featured Japan's bullet train that would explode if it dropped below 80km/h, with criminals demanding ransom money.

So who copied whom? If anything, "Speed" borrowed from Japan, not the other way around. Shinji Higuchi's new Netflix adaptation is simply bringing a Japanese classic back to life for a new generation.

The irony of Western viewers accusing a Japanese reboot of copying an American film that may have been "inspired" by the original Japanese concept is absolutely delicious. It's the perfect embodiment of that meme where someone makes a joke, someone else says it louder, and gets all the credit.

Not only was the story intense, but I really loved how they showcased the technical operations of the Tohoku Shinkansen - from the control room decisions to the real-time communication between the operator, conductor, and driver. It all felt incredibly authentic, like watching real professionals in action. Their calmness, precision, and teamwork during high-stress moments really stood out and added so much depth. As a Shinkansen otaku, seeing those accurate procedures and behind-the-scenes details was an absolute thrill and made the experience even more enjoyable. The attention to detail was remarkable.

OK so it's over long (losing momentum a bit in the second half), and the villain when revealed is an eye roll that doesn't really make all that much sense. But despite that its a fun and at times tense action / disaster movie, the type of which doesn't get made all that much these days.

The cast are all good, and the sfx are generally good, although they would have benefitted from a slightly higher budget here and there. Some great cinematography too.

I think anyone who likes movies like Unstoppable, Silver Streak, Speed and other similar disaster movies will find much to enjoy in this film.

But this is really good! I like the 3D-effects regarding to the bullet train and I green screen effects where they made it exceptionally clear. In perspective this not really realistic as it is in Japan, 'cause it's too much of actions. But in general I liked the actor's character more their personalities that fits into the movie. I was surprised about the character's performance regarding to bomber that planted the bomb on the train. That felt so good with the twist in the good way. However that is, I'm not gonna spoil it. So watch the movie and enjoy actions felt with sweat and tears. You'll not regret it!