To be a top-notch New York City bike messenger takes speed, skill, and a willingness to ignore subtle annoyances like traffic lights, pedestrians, oncoming cars, etc. This goes double if you're handling a package that's a "Premium Rush," as Joseph Gordon-Levitt does in the new action thriller from superstar screenwriter David Koepp ("Jurassic Park," "Spider-Man").

Gordon-Levitt plays adrenaline junky delivery boy Nick Emery, who's being pursued by a crooked cop named Bobby (badguy du jour Michael Shannon) for the special delivery he has on him. Watch him pedal for his life in the clips below.

1. Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character may hate brakes, but would a little mouthwash kill him?

2. Our hero gives Michael Shannon the bum's rush.

3. Looks like Dania Ramirez could use some training wheels.