Trains have long captured the imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike. The confined space, the constant motion, and the potential for both adventure and danger make trains the perfect setting for a wide variety of stories. From thrilling action sequences to suspenseful mysteries, trains have played a crucial role in some of cinema’s most memorable moments. In this article, we’ll explore 28 of the best train movies that have captivated audiences over the years, taking you on an unforgettable cinematic journey on the rails.
1. The General (1926)
Buster Keaton’s silent classic The General is a masterpiece of physical comedy and daring stunts. Keaton stars as a railroad engineer who pursues his stolen locomotive during the American Civil War. With its meticulously choreographed chase scenes and Keaton’s deadpan humor, The General is a timeless gem that showcases the actor’s incredible talent and the ingenuity of early filmmaking.
The film’s climax features a spectacular moment where a real locomotive plunges into a river from a burning bridge, a stunt that was the most expensive single shot in silent film history. Keaton’s commitment to authenticity and his willingness to perform his own stunts make The General a thrilling and unforgettable experience. The film’s clever blend of comedy, action, and romance has inspired countless filmmakers and continues to delight audiences nearly a century after its release.
2. Murder on the Orient Express (1974)
Murder on the Orient Express, based on Agatha Christie’s classic novel, is a star-studded whodunit that takes place aboard the luxurious Orient Express train. When a wealthy passenger is found dead in his compartment, detective Hercule Poirot (Albert Finney) must solve the case before the killer strikes again.
Director Sidney Lumet masterfully builds suspense and keeps the audience guessing until the final reveal. The film’s opulent set design and costumes transport viewers to the golden age of rail travel, while the all-star cast, including Lauren Bacall, Ingrid Bergman, and Sean Connery, bring the colorful suspects to life. Finney’s portrayal of Poirot is both humorous and intelligent, making him a memorable protagonist. Murder on the Orient Express is a classic mystery that combines style, suspense, and a touch of old Hollywood glamour.
3. Strangers on a Train (1951)
Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller Strangers on a Train explores the consequences of a chance encounter between two men on a train. When the charming but psychopathic Bruno (Robert Walker) proposes a murder swap with the unsuspecting Guy (Farley Granger), it sets off a chain of events that spirals out of control.
Hitchcock’s masterful direction creates an atmosphere of mounting tension and moral ambiguity. The film’s memorable set pieces, such as the climactic carousel scene, showcase the director’s ability to craft suspenseful and visually striking sequences. Walker’s chilling performance as the manipulative Bruno is a standout, while Granger brings depth to the conflicted Guy. Strangers on a Train is a gripping exploration of guilt, obsession, and the dark impulses that can lurk beneath the surface of everyday life.
4. Runaway Train (1985)
Runaway Train, directed by Andrei Konchalovsky, is a gripping action-thriller about two escaped convicts (Jon Voight and Eric Roberts) who find themselves trapped on an out-of-control train in the Alaskan wilderness. As the train hurtles towards disaster, the unlikely allies must work together to survive.
Voight and Roberts deliver intense, Oscar-nominated performances as the hardened criminals who confront their own mortality and the harsh realities of freedom. The film’s unrelenting pace and stunning cinematography capture the raw power and danger of the runaway train, making for a visceral and heart-pounding viewing experience. Runaway Train is a gritty and existential thriller that explores themes of redemption, survival, and the human will to live.
5. The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three is a taut and witty thriller about a group of armed men who hijack a New York City subway train and demand a ransom for the passengers. Walter Matthau stars as the transit police lieutenant tasked with outwitting the criminals and saving the hostages.
Director Joseph Sargent keeps the tension high with a fast-paced plot and sharp dialogue. The film’s colorful cast of characters, including Robert Shaw as the ruthless leader of the hijackers, adds depth and humor to the proceedings. Matthau’s wry performance as the unflappable lieutenant anchors the film and provides a perfect counterpoint to the high-stakes situation. The Taking of Pelham One Two Three is a quintessential New York movie that captures the grit and energy of the city while delivering a thrilling and entertaining ride.
6. The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
Wes Anderson’s whimsical dramedy The Darjeeling Limited follows three estranged brothers (Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody, and Jason Schwartzman) as they embark on a spiritual journey across India by train. As they navigate their complicated relationships and confront their past, the brothers discover the true meaning of family.
Anderson’s distinctive visual style is on full display, with meticulously crafted compositions and a rich color palette that captures the beauty and chaos of India. The film’s quirky humor and poignant moments are balanced by the strong performances of the lead actors, who bring depth and nuance to their flawed but lovable characters. The Darjeeling Limited is a charming and introspective film that explores the bonds of family and the search for meaning in life.
7. Before Sunrise (1995)
Richard Linklater’s romantic drama Before Sunrise begins on a train from Budapest, where American tourist Jesse (Ethan Hawke) meets French student Celine (Julie Delpy). The two decide to disembark in Vienna and spend the night walking and talking, forging a deep connection before Jesse’s return flight.
Linklater’s naturalistic dialogue and the chemistry between Hawke and Delpy create a sense of intimacy and authenticity that draws the viewer into their blossoming relationship. The film’s picturesque Viennese locations and the ticking clock of Jesse’s impending departure add to the romantic and bittersweet atmosphere. Before Sunrise is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant film that captures the magic and uncertainty of a chance encounter and the power of human connection.
8. Snowpiercer (2013)
Bong Joon-ho’s dystopian thriller Snowpiercer takes place aboard a train that circles the globe, carrying the last remnants of humanity after a failed attempt to stop global warming. As class tensions rise between the privileged front passengers and the oppressed tail section, a revolution brews.
The film’s inventive set design and stunning visuals create a fully realized world within the confines of the train, with each car representing a different aspect of the rigidly stratified society. Chris Evans leads a stellar cast as the reluctant leader of the rebellion, while Tilda Swinton delivers a scene-stealing performance as the train’s authoritarian minister. Snowpiercer is a thought-provoking and action-packed film that explores themes of class, inequality, and the cost of survival in a post-apocalyptic world.
9. Twentieth Century (1934)
Howard Hawks’ screwball comedy Twentieth Century stars John Barrymore as a flamboyant Broadway producer who tries to win back his former protégé and lover (Carole Lombard) during a cross-country train journey. The rapid-fire dialogue and over-the-top performances create a hilarious and energetic romp.
Barrymore and Lombard’s chemistry is electric, with their characters’ love-hate relationship driving the film’s comedic tension. Hawks’ direction keeps the pace brisk and the laughs coming, while the art deco train interiors provide a glamorous backdrop for the madcap antics. Twentieth Century is a classic of the screwball genre that showcases the talents of its legendary cast and director.
10. The Lady Vanishes (1938)
Alfred Hitchcock’s pre-war thriller The Lady Vanishes follows a young woman (Margaret Lockwood) who befriends an elderly lady on a train, only to find that she has disappeared and no one else seems to remember her. As she searches for the truth, she uncovers a sinister plot involving espionage and murder.
Hitchcock’s masterful blend of suspense, humor, and romance keeps the audience engaged and guessing until the final reveal. The film’s claustrophobic train setting adds to the tension, while the colorful cast of characters, including Michael Redgrave as a charming musicologist, provides a perfect balance of wit and intrigue. The Lady Vanishes is a prime example of Hitchcock’s early genius and a classic of the mystery-thriller genre.
11. Unstoppable (2010)
Tony Scott’s action-thriller Unstoppable is based on the true story of a runaway freight train carrying hazardous materials and the two railroad employees (Denzel Washington and Chris Pine) who risk their lives to stop it before it derails and causes a catastrophic disaster.
Scott’s kinetic direction and the film’s impressive practical effects create a sense of urgency and realism that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Washington and Pine’s performances as the unlikely heroes anchor the film and provide emotional depth to the high-stakes situation. Unstoppable is a gripping and entertaining thriller that celebrates the bravery and dedication of everyday heroes.
12. The Train (1964)
The Train, directed by John Frankenheimer, is a World War II thriller about a French railway inspector (Burt Lancaster) who must stop a Nazi colonel from transporting stolen art masterpieces to Germany by train. As the Allies close in, the inspector and the Resistance hatch a daring plan to save France’s cultural heritage.
Lancaster’s powerful performance as the determined and resourceful inspector drives the film’s narrative, while Frankenheimer’s taut direction and the film’s stunning black-and-white cinematography create a sense of urgency and moral complexity. The Train is a gripping and thought-provoking film that explores the value of art, the cost of war, and the lengths people will go to protect what they hold dear.
13. Silver Streak (1976)
Arthur Hiller’s comedy-thriller Silver Streak stars Gene Wilder as a mild-mannered book editor who becomes embroiled in a murder mystery and romance aboard a cross-country train. When he teams up with a charming thief (Richard Pryor), the two must outwit the villains and save the day.
Wilder and Pryor’s comedic chemistry is the heart of the film, with their contrasting personalities and improvisational skills creating hilarious and memorable moments. Hiller’s direction balances the laughs with genuine suspense, while the film’s train setting provides a perfect backdrop for the unfolding adventure. Silver Streak is a delightful and entertaining romp that showcases the talents of its legendary comic duo.
14. The Polar Express (2004)
Robert Zemeckis’ animated adventure The Polar Express, based on the beloved children’s book, follows a young boy who boards a magical train on Christmas Eve and embarks on a journey of self-discovery to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus.
The film’s groundbreaking motion-capture animation creates a dreamlike and immersive world, while Tom Hanks’ multiple voice performances bring warmth and depth to the characters. The Polar Express’s themes of belief, wonder, and the power of imagination resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a modern holiday classic. The film’s stunning visuals, heartfelt message, and memorable score create a truly enchanting and uplifting experience.
15. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
John Hughes’ classic comedy Planes, Trains and Automobiles stars Steve Martin as a stressed-out advertising executive who finds himself stuck with a well-meaning but obnoxious shower curtain ring salesman (John Candy) as he tries to make it home for Thanksgiving. As their journey takes a series of disastrous turns, the two form an unlikely friendship.
Martin and Candy’s perfect comedic timing and undeniable chemistry elevate the film’s humor and heart, while Hughes’ sharp writing and direction create a poignant and relatable story about the challenges and rewards of human connection. Planes, Trains and Automobiles is a hilarious and heartwarming comedy that has become a beloved Thanksgiving tradition for many.
16. The Narrow Margin (1952)
Richard Fleischer’s film noir The Narrow Margin stars Charles McGraw as a tough police detective tasked with protecting a gangster’s widow (Marie Windsor) as she travels by train to testify before a grand jury. As assassins close in, the detective must navigate a web of deceit and danger to keep his witness alive.
Fleischer’s taut direction and the film’s claustrophobic train setting create a sense of mounting tension and paranoia, while McGraw and Windsor’s sharp performances bring depth and ambiguity to their characters. The Narrow Margin is a masterclass in economical storytelling and a prime example of the film noir genre, with its shadowy cinematography, snappy dialogue, and moral complexity.
17. The Great Train Robbery (1903)
Edwin S. Porter’s groundbreaking silent short The Great Train Robbery is often credited with establishing the Western genre and pioneering many of the cinematic techniques that would become standard in the years to come. The film follows a gang of outlaws as they rob a train and make their getaway, only to be pursued by a posse of determined lawmen.
Despite its brief runtime, The Great Train Robbery packs in a surprising amount of action and suspense, with its iconic final shot of a gunman firing directly at the camera still retaining its power to shock and thrill audiences. The film’s influence on the development of narrative cinema cannot be overstated, and it remains a fascinating and entertaining glimpse into the early days of moviemaking.
18. Emperor of the North (1973)
Robert Aldrich’s Depression-era adventure Emperor of the North stars Lee Marvin as a legendary hobo who rides the rails, facing off against a sadistic railroad guard (Ernest Borgnine) determined to keep his train free of stowaways. When a young drifter (Keith Carradine) joins the fray, the stage is set for a brutal battle of wills.
Marvin and Borgnine’s intense performances and the film’s gritty, realistic portrayal of life during the Great Depression create a sense of raw power and desperation. Aldrich’s direction and the film’s stunning Pacific Northwest locations capture the beauty and danger of the hobo lifestyle, while the film’s themes of pride, masculinity, and the struggle for survival give it a timeless and universal appeal.
19. Von Ryan’s Express (1965)
Mark Robson’s World War II adventure Von Ryan’s Express stars Frank Sinatra as an American POW who leads a daring escape from an Italian prison camp, only to find himself and his fellow prisoners stranded behind enemy lines with a German train as their only hope for survival.
Sinatra’s charismatic performance and the film’s thrilling action sequences, including a spectacular train crash, make for a rousing and entertaining wartime epic. Robson’s direction and the film’s stunning European locations capture the scale and drama of the conflict, while the film’s themes of courage, sacrifice, and the bonds of brotherhood give it an emotional depth and resonance.
20. The Cassandra Crossing (1976)
George P. Cosmatos’ disaster thriller The Cassandra Crossing features an all-star cast, including Sophia Loren, Richard Harris, and Burt Lancaster, as passengers on a plague-stricken train hurtling towards a collapsing bridge. As the authorities try to cover up the outbreak and sacrifice the passengers, a doctor (Harris) and a train conductor (Lancaster) race against time to save them.
The film’s impressive set pieces, including a nerve-wracking sequence on the titular bridge, and its high-stakes plot create a sense of urgency and suspense. While The Cassandra Crossing may not be a critical darling, its star power, slick production values, and entertaining blend of disaster movie tropes and conspiracy thriller elements make it a guilty pleasure for fans of the genre.
21. Closely Watched Trains (1966)
Jiří Menzel’s Czech New Wave classic Closely Watched Trains is a coming-of-age story set during World War II, following a young railway apprentice who longs for love and adventure while working at a sleepy train station. As he navigates the complexities of romance and the realities of life under Nazi occupation, he becomes involved in a dangerous act of resistance.
Menzel’s gentle, humorous approach and the film’s charming, naturalistic performances create a poignant and bittersweet portrait of youth, innocence, and the human spirit in the face of adversity. Closely Watched Trains is a masterpiece of understated storytelling and a testament to the power of cinema as a tool for social commentary and personal expression.
22. The Incident (1967)
Larry Peerce’s gritty, intense drama The Incident takes place over the course of a single night on a New York City subway train, where two young thugs (Tony Musante and Martin Sheen in his screen debut) terrorize a group of passengers from all walks of life. As the tension mounts and the violence escalates, the passengers are forced to confront their own fears, prejudices, and moral choices.
The film’s claustrophobic setting and the raw, unflinching performances of its ensemble cast create a sense of unrelenting tension and psychological realism. Peerce’s direction and the film’s stark, black-and-white cinematography capture the grime and desperation of the city, while the film’s themes of social inequality, urban alienation, and the thin line between civility and savagery give it a timeless and universal relevance.
23. Terror Train (1980)
Roger Spottiswoode’s slasher film Terror Train follows a group of college students who throw a costume party aboard a chartered train, only to find themselves stalked by a masked killer seeking revenge for a cruel prank gone wrong. As the body count rises and the survivors fight for their lives, they must uncover the killer’s identity and confront the sins of their past.
Jamie Lee Curtis, in one of her early scream queen roles, anchors the film with her strong, sympathetic performance, while Spottiswoode’s taut direction and the film’s atmospheric use of the train setting create a sense of claustrophobic terror. Terror Train is a solid entry in the slasher genre, with its inventive kills, suspenseful set pieces, and satisfying final twist.
24. Transsiberian (2008)
Brad Anderson’s thriller Transsiberian follows an American couple (Woody Harrelson and Emily Mortimer) who befriend a mysterious pair of fellow travelers (Eduardo Noriega and Kate Mara) while on a train journey from China to Moscow. As secrets are revealed and tensions mount, they find themselves caught up in a deadly web of drug smuggling, corruption, and murder.
Anderson’s direction and the film’s stunning cinematography capture the stark beauty and isolation of the Siberian landscape, while the strong performances of the cast bring depth and ambiguity to their characters. Transsiberian is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the consequences of our choices.
25. Night Train to Munich (1940)
Carol Reed’s espionage thriller Night Train to Munich stars Margaret Lockwood as a young woman who must flee Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia with her father, a renowned scientist, only to find herself pursued by German agents aboard a train to Switzerland. When a British spy (Rex Harrison) comes to her aid, the two must outwit their enemies and complete a daring mission to save her father and protect his secret invention.
Reed’s confident direction and the film’s witty, fast-paced script create a perfect blend of suspense, romance, and humor, while Lockwood and Harrison’s sparkling chemistry anchors the film’s emotional core. Night Train to Munich is a classic of the spy genre, with its thrilling train sequences, clever plot twists, and timely commentary on the perils of fascism and the importance of standing up to tyranny.
26. The 15:17 to Paris (2018)
Clint Eastwood’s biographical drama The 15:17 to Paris tells the true story of three American friends who, while on a train from Amsterdam to Paris, confronted and subdued a heavily armed terrorist, saving countless lives and becoming international heroes. In an unconventional move, Eastwood cast the real-life heroes (Spencer Stone, Anthony Sadler, and Alek Skarlatos) as themselves, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the film.
While the film’s pacing and the non-professional actors’ performances may not be to everyone’s taste, Eastwood’s assured direction and the inherent power of the story create a moving and inspiring portrait of ordinary people rising to extraordinary circumstances. The 15:17 to Paris is a testament to the courage and resilience of the human spirit, and a reminder of the importance of everyday heroism in the face of terror and adversity.
27. Source Code (2011)
Duncan Jones’ science fiction thriller Source Code stars Jake Gyllenhaal as a soldier who wakes up in the body of another man aboard a commuter train, only to find himself reliving the same eight minutes over and over again as part of a top-secret mission to prevent a terrorist attack. As he races against time to uncover the bomber’s identity and save the passengers, he begins to question the nature of his reality and the ethics of his mission.
Jones’ inventive direction and the film’s clever, mind-bending script create a gripping and emotionally resonant puzzle box of a movie, while Gyllenhaal’s strong, sympathetic performance anchors the film’s human drama. Source Code is a smart, thrilling, and ultimately poignant exploration of identity, sacrifice, and the power of second chances, with its train setting serving as a perfect metaphor for the cyclical nature of time and the interconnectedness of human lives.
28. Bullet Train (2022)
David Leitch’s action comedy Bullet Train follows Ladybug (Brad Pitt), an unlucky assassin determined to do his job peacefully after one too many gigs gone off the rails. Fate, however, may have other plans, as Ladybug’s latest mission puts him on a collision course with lethal adversaries from around the globe – all with connected, yet conflicting, objectives – on the world’s fastest train.
The film features a star-studded ensemble cast including Joey King, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Andrew Koji, Hiroyuki Sanada, Michael Shannon, and Sandra Bullock. Set primarily on a speeding bullet train, the movie delivers high-octane action sequences, dark humor, and stylish visuals as the assassins engage in a deadly game of cat and mouse while unraveling the intricately connected web of their missions.
Bullet Train was praised for its entertaining action, colorful characters, and Brad Pitt’s charismatic lead performance. The movie’s inventive use of the train setting, non-linear storytelling, and over-the-top style make it a fun and wild ride for action fans.
These 28 films demonstrate the enduring appeal and versatility of the train as a setting for cinematic storytelling, from pulse-pounding thrillers to poignant character studies, from historical dramas to sci-fi mind-benders. Whether as a symbol of progress and adventure, a crucible for human drama and conflict, or a metaphor for life’s journey, the train continues to capture the imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike, offering a window into the human experience and a reflection of our hopes, fears, and dreams. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you embark on an unforgettable cinematic journey on the rails.
