The subway, an essential part of urban life, has inspired numerous films that delve into its history, construction, and the lives it touches. This curated list of 10 biographical films about the subway not only provides a fascinating look into the engineering marvels and the daily dramas that unfold beneath our cities but also celebrates the human stories intertwined with these underground networks. From tales of heroism to the challenges of construction, these films offer a unique perspective on the subway's role in shaping modern cities and the lives of those who build and use it.
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: This classic thriller captures the tension of a subway hijacking in New York City, showcasing the subway's role in urban life and its vulnerabilities.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta. The original title refers to the train's departure time, 1:23 PM.
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Subway (1985)
Description: Set in the Paris Métro, this film follows a fugitive who hides in the subway system, offering a stylish look at the underground world.
Fact: The movie was directed by Luc Besson, known for "Léon: The Professional" and "The Fifth Element."
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The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: While not directly about subways, this film features a subplot involving the construction of the Uganda Railway, which parallels the challenges faced in subway construction.
Fact: The film is based on a true story about two man-eating lions that attacked workers during the railway's construction.
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Metro (1997)
Description: While not strictly a biopic, this action film set in the San Francisco Muni Metro system captures the essence of urban transit and its role in city life.
Fact: Eddie Murphy stars as a hostage negotiator, showcasing his versatility in action roles.
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The Commuter (2018)
Description: Liam Neeson stars as a commuter caught in a conspiracy on a New York City subway train, highlighting the daily commute's potential for drama and intrigue.
Fact: The film was shot on actual New York City subway trains, providing an authentic setting.
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The Tunnel (2014)
Description: A South Korean film about a man trapped in a collapsed tunnel, reflecting on the infrastructure's fragility and the human spirit's resilience.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life tunnel collapses, highlighting the dangers of urban development.
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The Tunnel (2001)
Description: This German film tells the story of a group digging a tunnel under the Berlin Wall, reflecting the ingenuity and desperation of those trying to escape, akin to subway construction efforts.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of a tunnel dug by students in 1962 to help East Berliners escape to the West.
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The Tunnel (2011)
Description: An Australian found footage horror film where journalists investigate the abandoned rail tunnels beneath Sydney, exploring urban legends and the city's dark history.
Fact: The film was shot in real abandoned tunnels, adding to its eerie authenticity.
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The Underground Railroad (2021)
Description: While not about a literal subway, this series metaphorically represents the escape routes for slaves as an "underground railroad," paralleling the hidden networks of subways.
Fact: The series was adapted from Colson Whitehead's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.
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The Subway (2002)
Description: This documentary explores the history and daily operations of the New York City Subway, providing insights into its construction and the lives of its workers.
Fact: The film includes interviews with subway workers and historians, offering a comprehensive look at the subway's impact on the city.
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