This Japanese high-concept thriller is basically Speed on a bullet train, with a bomb on board the new 'Dream Super Express' that will be triggered if it goes below 100kmph, with social media brought in to give the film scale and a contemporary twist, as a huge ransom is demanded that is to be paid by all the citizens of Japan. Characters adhere to old-school disaster movie conventions, from the seasoned conductor and his young enthusiastic sidekick to the eclectic bunch of passengers, ranging from a troubled politician to a school trip group. The film is edited to within an inch of its life with creditable coverage, the constant brooding music score keeps up the sense of unease, everything is played with complete seriousness, with suspense and jeopardy maintained well for its two-hours-plus runtime considering its very familiar scenario. The mix of different experiences and viewpoints works in the film's favour, even when it takes a more sombre turn in the final act, which provides an entertaining experience alongside the more generic action elements which are also handled well.
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