All Aboard: 15 Must-See Movies Featuring Trains and Railways

1. A Passage to India 1984，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 21303, ID: 0087892
Photo by stackexchange.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

David Lean’s ‘A Passage to India’ is a visually stunning adaptation of E.M. Forster’s novel, capturing the cultural clash between the British and Indians during the colonial era. The train journey in the film is a pivotal moment, symbolizing the journey into the unknown and the cultural divide. The film’s strengths lie in its breathtaking cinematography and powerful performances, though it can feel a bit lengthy at times. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking film that beautifully portrays the complexities of colonial India.
2. Tezz 2012，IMDB Rating: 4.1, IMDB Votes: 2621, ID: 1706317
Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Tezz is an action-packed thriller that revolves around a bomb threat on a train in the UK. The film, starring Ajay Devgn and Anil Kapoor, is a high-octane ride filled with suspense and drama. While it borrows elements from Hollywood films like Speed, it manages to keep the audience on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced narrative. The film’s depiction of the train and its passengers adds to the tension and excitement. Despite its flaws, Tezz is a gripping watch for action enthusiasts.
3. The Darjeeling Limited 2007，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 218630, ID: 0838221
Photo by aniwiki.es, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Darjeeling Limited is a whimsical and poignant tale of three brothers on a train journey across India. Directed by Wes Anderson, the film is a visual treat with its vibrant colors and meticulous attention to detail. The train serves as a metaphor for the brothers’ journey towards reconciliation and self-discovery. The film’s quirky humor and heartfelt moments make it a memorable experience. It’s a beautiful exploration of family dynamics and personal growth.
4. Busanhaeng 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 264658, ID: 5700672
Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Train to Busan is a thrilling and emotional rollercoaster that redefines the zombie genre. Set on a train from Seoul to Busan, the film follows a group of passengers fighting for survival during a zombie outbreak. The film’s intense action sequences are balanced with heartfelt moments, making it a gripping and moving experience. The social commentary on human behavior in crisis situations adds depth to the narrative. It’s a must-watch for horror fans and those looking for a unique cinematic experience.
5. Murder on the Orient Express 1974，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 69726, ID: 0071877
Photo by oldaintdead.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Sidney Lumet’s ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ is a masterclass in the classic whodunit genre, featuring an all-star cast led by Albert Finney as the meticulous Hercule Poirot. The film’s setting aboard the luxurious Orient Express adds a layer of sophistication and intrigue, making it a captivating watch. The plot, based on Agatha Christie’s novel, is a labyrinth of clues and red herrings that keeps the audience guessing until the very end. The film’s strength lies in its ability to balance suspense with moments of levity, making it both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.
6. From Russia with Love 1963，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 146544, ID: 0057076
Photo by bfoliver.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The second James Bond film, ‘From Russia with Love,’ is a Cold War thriller that features several electrifying action scenes, including an extended sequence set aboard the Orient Express. Sean Connery’s portrayal of Bond, combined with the film’s brisk pace and intriguing plot, makes it a classic in the spy genre.
7. The Taking of Pelham One Two Three 1974，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 36605, ID: 0072251
Photo by en.wiki.x.io, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

This heist thriller set in New York City’s subway system is a gripping tale of four criminals who hijack a train and hold its passengers hostage. Walter Matthau’s performance as the Transit Authority lieutenant and the film’s realistic portrayal of New York City make it a standout in the crime genre.
8. The First Great Train Robbery 1978，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 19790, ID: 0079240
Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Michael Crichton’s ‘The First Great Train Robbery’ is a delightful heist film set in the Victorian era, featuring Sean Connery and Donald Sutherland as charming rogues. The film’s historical accuracy is commendable, and the intricate plot keeps viewers engaged. The blend of comedy and suspense, though sometimes uneven, adds to its charm. It’s a fascinating look at a real-life event, making it both entertaining and educational.
9. Terror Train 1980，IMDB Rating: 5.8, IMDB Votes: 14030, ID: 0081617
Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Jamie Lee Curtis shines in ‘Terror Train,’ a slasher film set on a moving train. The confined setting heightens the suspense, and the plot, involving a masked killer seeking revenge, keeps viewers on edge. While it has its share of clichés, the film’s unique setting and strong performances make it a standout in the horror genre.
10. Runaway Train 1985，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 33569, ID: 0089941
Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Andrei Konchalovsky’s ‘Runaway Train’ is a gripping action thriller that explores themes of freedom and survival. Jon Voight and Eric Roberts deliver powerful performances as escaped convicts on an out-of-control train. The film’s intense action sequences and philosophical undertones make it a compelling watch, blending adrenaline-pumping excitement with deeper reflections on human nature.
11. Unstoppable 2010，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 209070, ID: 0477080
Photo by phcityonweb.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Unstoppable is a thrilling ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Directed by Tony Scott, this film features Denzel Washington and Chris Pine as they attempt to stop a runaway train carrying toxic chemicals. The movie’s relentless pace and high-stakes action make it a standout in the genre of train-related films. The performances are solid, and the tension is palpable, making it an engaging watch for anyone interested in action-packed, informative cinema.
12. Snowpiercer 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 392661, ID: 1706620
Photo by Waging Nonviolence, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Snowpiercer, directed by Bong Joon-ho, is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film set on a train that carries the last remnants of humanity in a post-apocalyptic world. Chris Evans leads a revolt against the oppressive class system on the train, making it a powerful commentary on social inequality. The film’s unique setting and compelling narrative make it a must-watch for those interested in culturally rich and insightful cinema.
13. The Commuter 2018，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 126484, ID: 1590193
Photo by coyotepr.uk, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Commuter, starring Liam Neeson, is a suspenseful thriller that takes place almost entirely on a commuter train. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, the film follows Neeson’s character as he uncovers a criminal conspiracy during his daily commute. While the plot may be somewhat predictable, the film’s fast pace and Neeson’s compelling performance make it an entertaining watch for fans of train-related thrillers.
14. The Grifters 1990，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 30805, ID: 0099703
Photo by allthetropes.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

‘The Grifters’ is a gripping neo-noir film about con artists. A memorable train scene showcases the cunning and deceit of the characters, adding to the film’s suspense. As a viewer who enjoys thrillers, I find the film’s exploration of deception and moral ambiguity fascinating.
15. Silver Streak 1976，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 21999, ID: 0075223
Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Silver Streak is a delightful blend of comedy and thriller, set against the backdrop of a train journey from Los Angeles to Chicago. Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor’s chemistry is electric, making the film both humorous and suspenseful. The plot revolves around a murder mystery on the train, with Wilder’s character inadvertently getting involved. The film’s portrayal of train travel is nostalgic and romantic, adding to its charm. Overall, Silver Streak is an entertaining ride that keeps you engaged from start to finish.