Top 10 Documentaries About Trains

Description: Set during WWII, this film follows a French Resistance fighter's efforts to prevent a train full of priceless art from being taken to Germany. It's a thrilling depiction of the strategic importance of railways in wartime.

Fact: The film used real steam locomotives from the French National Railway, adding to its authenticity.

Description: While not strictly a train documentary, this film is set during the construction of the Uganda-Mombasa Railway, where workers were terrorized by man-eating lions. It's a gripping tale of survival and engineering against the backdrop of railway development.

Fact: The film is based on real events, and the lions' remains are now on display in the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.

Description: Wes Anderson's film follows three brothers on a journey through India aboard the Darjeeling Limited train. While not a documentary, it captures the essence of train travel and the cultural significance of railways in India.

Fact: The film was shot on location in India, using real trains from the Indian Railways.

Description: Based on the autobiography of Eric Lomax, this film recounts his experiences as a prisoner of war forced to work on the Thai-Burma Railway. It's a powerful story of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Fact: The film was shot in locations where the actual events took place, providing a realistic backdrop.

Description: This French film, while fictional, explores the theme of a train journey during World War II, where a Jewish village in Eastern Europe stages a fake deportation to escape the Nazis. It's a poignant look at human ingenuity and survival.

Fact: The film won the FIPRESCI Prize at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival.

Description: This documentary-style film tells the story of Graeme Obree, a Scottish cyclist who built his own bike from scrap parts and broke the world hour record. The film uses train imagery to symbolize his journey and determination.

Fact: The real Graeme Obree was involved in the film's production, ensuring authenticity.

Description: While a thriller, this film uses the Trans-Siberian Railway as its setting, offering viewers a glimpse into the vastness of Russia and the adventure of train travel.

Fact: The film was shot on the actual Trans-Siberian Railway, providing authentic visuals.

Description: This film recounts the infamous 1963 British train robbery, where a gang of robbers made off with £2.6 million. It's a thrilling look at one of the most audacious crimes in history, focusing on the planning and execution of the heist.

Fact: The film was directed by Michael Crichton, who also wrote the novel on which it was based. It was one of the first films to use a computer for its special effects.

Description: This documentary series explores the history of railways, from the early steam engines to modern high-speed trains, showcasing how trains have shaped societies and economies.

Fact: The series features interviews with historians, engineers, and enthusiasts from around the world.

Description: This documentary recounts the harrowing experiences of survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, focusing on those who were on the trains during the blasts.

Fact: The film includes interviews with survivors who share their personal stories for the first time.