All aboard: the best train movies ever made
From daring heists to thrilling mysteries, trains have been the perfect setting for cinematic stories. Jump on board as we explore some of the greatest movies ever set on rails.



Trains, with their inherent sense of journey and confinement, offer a unique backdrop for storytelling. From the early days of cinema, as seen in The Great Train Robbery (1903) and The General (1926), filmmakers have harnessed the power and symbolism of trains to create suspense, romance, and adventure. Whether it's a high-speed thriller like Unstoppable (2010), where a runaway train threatens to destroy everything in its path, or a locked-room mystery such as Murder on the Orient Express (1974), where a killer lurks among the passengers, train movies offer a diverse range of cinematic experiences. Beyond action and suspense, films like The Darjeeling Limited (2007) use the train as a metaphor for personal journeys and self-discovery. Science fiction has also embraced the setting, with Snowpiercer (2013) using a train as a microcosm of society in a post-apocalyptic world. The train setting allows for tension and drama, making it a versatile and enduring setting in film history.
14. The Girl on the Train (2016)
'The Girl on the Train' is a psychological thriller based on the novel. Rachel, an alcoholic, is dealing with her recent divorce. She spends her daily commute fantasizing about the seemingly perfect couple she sees from the train. One day, she witnesses something shocking and becomes entangled in a missing person's investigation. The movie tries to emulate 'Gone Girl', but fails in the attempt, becoming a mediocre thriller.

13. Runaway Train (1985)
'Runaway Train' is an action thriller about two escaped convicts who find themselves on a train with no driver. As the train barrels through the Alaskan wilderness, they must find a way to stop it before it crashes. The film is a tense and exciting ride, with impressive stunt work and a strong cast. While the plot may be a bit far-fetched, the film delivers plenty of thrills and suspense, and the Alaskan setting adds a unique atmosphere to the action.

12. Source Code (2011)
'Source Code' is a science fiction thriller about a soldier who is sent into a computer program to relive the last eight minutes of a man's life on a train, in order to find a bomber and prevent a future attack. Jake Gyllenhaal stars in this mind-bending thriller that raises questions about reality and destiny. The movie uses its time-loop premise to deliver a gripping and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

11. The Great Train Robbery (1903)
'The Great Train Robbery' is a silent film, considered one of the earliest and most influential examples of the Western genre. Directed by Edwin S. Porter, the film depicts a group of outlaws who rob a train and escape with their loot. It's a simple story, but the film was revolutionary for its time, with its use of editing, location shooting, and action sequences. The movie is only about 12 minutes long, but its impact on the history of cinema is undeniable. It's a fascinating glimpse into the early days of filmmaking and a must-see for film buffs.

10. Strangers on a Train (1951)
Alfred Hitchcock's 'Strangers on a Train' is a psychological thriller about two men who meet on a train and hatch a disturbing plan. One man proposes that they "trade" murders: he'll kill the other man's wife, and in return, the other man will kill his father. One man thinks it's a joke, but the other takes it deadly seriously. The film is a masterclass in suspense, with Hitchcock expertly building tension and creating a sense of unease. The film explores themes of guilt, obsession, and the dark side of human nature. If you're a fan of Hitchcock, 'Strangers on a Train' is a must-see.

9. The Commuter (2018)
'The Commuter' is an action thriller starring Liam Neeson as an insurance salesman who gets caught up in a dangerous conspiracy during his daily train ride home. A mysterious woman offers him a large sum of money to identify a specific passenger on the train, but he soon realizes that he's become a pawn in a deadly game. Neeson brings his usual intensity to the role, and the film delivers plenty of suspenseful moments. If you're looking for a fun, action-packed ride with a few twists and turns, 'The Commuter' is a solid choice.

8. The Polar Express (2004)
'The Polar Express' is a family-friendly animated film based on the popular children's book. A young boy who is starting to doubt the existence of Santa Claus embarks on a magical train journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. The train is filled with other children, and together they experience the wonder and joy of the holiday season. It's a heartwarming tale about the importance of believing and keeping the spirit of Christmas alive. While the animation style might feel a little dated, the movie still captures the enchantment of the original story.

7. The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
'The Darjeeling Limited', directed by Wes Anderson, is a comedy-drama about three estranged brothers who embark on a spiritual journey across India by train. The brothers, still grappling with the death of their father, hope to reconnect and find themselves along the way. What follows is a quirky, visually stunning, and often hilarious adventure filled with family drama, cultural clashes, and moments of unexpected tenderness. With a great soundtrack and typical Anderson style, this movie is a very fun watch!

6. The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 (2009)
Tony Scott's 'The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3' is a remake of the 1974 film with the same name. A New York City subway train is hijacked by a group of criminals. Walter Garber, a train dispatcher, is the negotiator who has to deal with the leader, Ryder, while trying to save the hostages. Starring Denzel Washington and John Travolta, the movie showcases a good cop/bad guy game with a lot of tense scenes that keep the viewer entertained.

5. Murder on the Orient Express (1974)
Sidney Lumet's 'Murder on the Orient Express' is a classic whodunit based on Agatha Christie's famous novel. When a wealthy businessman is found murdered on the luxurious Orient Express, detective Hercule Poirot, played by Albert Finney, must use his legendary skills to unravel the mystery and unmask the killer among a train full of suspects. The film is stylish, atmospheric, and features an all-star cast. It's a delightful puzzle box of clues and red herrings that will keep you guessing until the very end. If you love a good mystery with a touch of old-fashioned glamour, 'Murder on the Orient Express' is a perfect choice.

4. 3:10 to Yuma (2007)
'3:10 to Yuma', is a captivating Western about morality, duty, and the complexities of human nature. Christian Bale plays a struggling rancher who takes on the dangerous task of delivering a notorious outlaw, played by Russell Crowe, to the 3:10 train to Yuma prison. What begins as a simple job becomes a tense battle of wills as the outlaw's gang gives chase and psychological games come into play. The performances are stellar, the cinematography is beautiful, and the story is gripping. This remake of the 1957 classic is a must-see for Western fans and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted character-driven story.

3. Unstoppable (2010)
Tony Scott's 'Unstoppable' delivers exactly what it promises: a high-octane, edge-of-your-seat action thriller. Inspired by a real runaway train incident, the film stars Denzel Washington and Chris Pine as railroad employees who must team up to stop a massive, unmanned freight train loaded with toxic chemicals from causing a catastrophe. The tension is relentless, the stakes are high, and the practical effects are incredibly impressive. Scott masterfully ratchets up the suspense, making you feel like you're right there on the tracks. If you're a fan of disaster movies or just need a shot of adrenaline, 'Unstoppable' will not disappoint. It's a masterclass in suspenseful filmmaking.

2. Snowpiercer (2013)
Bong Joon-ho's 'Snowpiercer' is a thrilling and thought-provoking science fiction film set entirely on a perpetually moving train carrying the last remnants of humanity after a climate catastrophe. The train is divided into classes, with the wealthy living in luxury at the front and the poor struggling to survive in the tail section. A rebellion brews as the oppressed fight their way forward. What makes this film so compelling is its sharp social commentary, paired with intense action sequences and some wild visuals. Tilda Swinton's performance alone is worth the price of admission. If you're looking for a movie that's both entertaining and makes you think, 'Snowpiercer' is a perfect choice.

1. The General (1926)
Buster Keaton's 'The General' is a cinematic masterpiece from the silent era, and an absolute must-see for any film enthusiast. Released in 1926, this action-comedy tells the story of a Southern railroad engineer who must single-handedly recover his stolen locomotive (The General) and rescue his sweetheart during the American Civil War. Keaton's incredible physical comedy, combined with impressive (and real!) stunt work and elaborate train sequences, makes this film a timeless classic. Imagine the scale: actual train crashes staged for the camera! It's not just a funny movie; it's a marvel of early filmmaking.
