Jack Traven (Keanu Reeves), an LAPD cop on SWAT detail, has a fearless nature and a keen understanding of the criminal mind, but he is also rather reckless. Together with partner Harry (Jeff Daniels), they rescue a dozen hostages from a booby-trapped elevator rigged by a psychotic ex-cop (Dennis Hopper). With his plans foiled by Jack, the bomber makes alternative arrangements - rigging a city bus to explode if the speedometer drops below 50 mph. It's then up to Jack to save the passengers, including feisty Annie (Sandra Bullock), the passenger who is forced to take the driving wheel after the driver is shot.