The film begins with a group of people traveling through the Holland Tunnel, which connects New York City to New Jersey. Suddenly, an explosion occurs, causing a massive collapse that traps several vehicles and dozens of people inside the tunnel.
Among the survivors is Kit Latura (played by Sylvester Stallone), a former New York City Emergency Medical Services (EMS) chief who now works as a cab driver. Despite being off-duty, Kit springs into action to rescue the trapped motorists and passengers.
As Kit navigates through the treacherous and crumbling tunnel, he encounters various survivors, including a pregnant woman, a young couple, and a group of prisoners being transported. Together, they must overcome numerous obstacles, including flooding, fires, and unstable structures, as they struggle to find a way out before it’s too late.
Meanwhile, on the surface, city officials and emergency responders scramble to devise a plan to rescue the trapped victims. Among them is the city’s mayor, Eleanor Grimshaw (played by Jacqueline Kim), who must make tough decisions under pressure.
In the climax of the film, Kit and the survivors reach a ventilation shaft that leads to the surface. However, they discover that the shaft is blocked by debris, and they must find a way to clear the path to safety.
With time running out and the tunnel on the verge of collapse, Kit devises a daring plan to detonate explosives to blast through the debris and create an escape route. Despite the risks, the survivors rally behind Kit, and together they execute the plan.
In a tense and heart-pounding sequence, the explosives detonate, creating a path to the surface. Kit and the survivors emerge from the tunnel just as it collapses behind them, narrowly escaping with their lives.
In the aftermath of the disaster, Kit is hailed as a hero for his bravery and quick thinking. He reunites with his estranged wife, who works as a nurse, and they reconcile their relationship, grateful to be alive and together.
“Daylight” is praised for its thrilling action sequences, suspenseful atmosphere, and strong performances, particularly from Sylvester Stallone as the heroic protagonist. It offers a gripping portrayal of a catastrophic event and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.