Speed ​​Kills (2018)

Directed by: Jodi Scurfield | 102 minutes | action, crime | Actors: John Travolta, Katheryn Winnick, Jennifer Esposito, Michael Weston, Jordi Mollà, Amaury Nolasco, Matthew Modine, James Remar, Kellan Lutz, Charlie Gillespie, Moran Atias, Tom Sizemore, Mike Massa, Luis Da Silva Jr., Keith Hudson, Jeffrey Holsman

In “Speed ​​Kills,” John Travolta plays millionaire-cum-real estate tycoon Ben Aronoff. This man decides one day to exchange the cold New Jersey for the warm and bustling Miami Beach. Once at his new destination, Aranoff’s life changes instantly. By himself that is, because this man decides to take it easy. He ditches his family and goes all out for a life of speedboat racing, booze and women. The millionaire sets up a company and builds his own speedboats with which he wants to win competitions. This cover suits him well. What many people don’t know, however, is that Aranoff does quite a bit of illegal business. He smuggles drugs. How long can things go well before this drug empire collapses and the government takes it down?

‘Speed ​​Kills’ is based on true events. Understandably, this bizarre story has led to a movie. The choice for Travolta is also understandable. The actor is visibly looking forward to this role and puts his teeth into it. He is on a roll and knows how to portray the villainous Aranoff with a lot of bravado and swagger. Travolta’s charisma keeps this crook just likable enough to follow.

Unfortunately, Travolta has been a little too generous with the Botox, making his facial expression very remarkable. His emotions do not come across well with the use of this rejuvenation treatment. Also, his bad wigs come across as quite laughable and downright amateurish. A shame, because that comes at the expense of Travolta’s performance, which is the best this film has to offer.

The cast isn’t bad, but it’s obvious that this is Travolta’s passion project. He is the star and driving force behind this project. If you’re up for an inspired performance from this star and in the mood for a remarkable history lesson, this is the film for you.