There's something uniquely thrilling about a train heist. The confined space, the speed, the tension of time ticking away as the train barrels down the tracks - all these elements combine to create a perfect setting for suspense and action. Here's a curated list of 10 films that capture the essence of train heists, each offering a unique twist on the classic theme. Whether you're a fan of high-octane action, intricate plots, or just love the adrenaline rush of a well-executed heist, these films are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Train (1964)
Description: Set during World War II, this film involves a French Resistance fighter who must prevent a train full of stolen French art from reaching Germany. While not a heist in the traditional sense, the film captures the tension and urgency of thwarting a train's journey.
Fact: Burt Lancaster performed many of his own stunts, including jumping on and off moving trains.
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The Train Robbers (1973)
Description: John Wayne stars in this Western where a group of men are hired to retrieve gold stolen from a train. While the heist is already done, the film captures the essence of a train-related adventure and the pursuit of stolen goods.
Fact: This was one of the last films John Wayne made before his death.
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The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: This classic thriller follows a group of hijackers who take control of a New York City subway train, demanding a million dollars for the release of the passengers. The film's real-time narrative and the cat-and-mouse game between the hijackers and the transit police make it a gripping watch.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta, but the original remains a cult favorite for its gritty realism and tight pacing.
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The Cassandra Crossing (1976)
Description: This disaster film features a train carrying passengers infected with a deadly virus. While not a heist, the film includes elements of suspense and action as the train is rerouted to an old bridge known as the Cassandra Crossing, which is about to collapse.
Fact: The film was shot on the real-life Gotthard Railway in Switzerland.
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Unstoppable (2010)
Description: While not a traditional heist, this film involves a runaway train loaded with toxic chemicals, creating a high-stakes scenario where the protagonists must stop the train before it causes a disaster. It's included for its intense train-related action and suspense.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life CSX 8888 incident, where a train ran uncontrolled for nearly two hours.
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The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)
Description: A modern remake of the 1974 classic, this film features Denzel Washington as a subway dispatcher dealing with a hostage situation on a New York City subway train. The updated technology and contemporary setting add a fresh twist to the original plot.
Fact: The film was shot on location in New York City, using real subway trains.
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The Commuter (2018)
Description: Liam Neeson stars as an insurance salesman caught in a criminal conspiracy on his daily commute. While not a heist, the film's setting on a train and the high-stakes game of cat and mouse make it a thrilling addition to the list.
Fact: The film was shot in London and New York, using real commuter trains for authenticity.
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The Great Train Robbery (1978)
Description: Based on the real-life 1855 robbery of the gold shipment from London to Folkestone, this film stars Sean Connery and Donald Sutherland. It's a meticulous depiction of Victorian England's criminal underworld and the planning of the heist.
Fact: The film was adapted from Michael Crichton's novel of the same name, which he also directed.
30 Days Free The Bullet Train (1975)
Description: A Japanese thriller where a disgruntled employee plants a bomb on the bullet train, demanding a ransom. The film's real-time depiction of the crisis and the efforts to save the passengers make it a compelling watch.
Fact: The film was remade in 2015 as "The Bullet Train" with a different storyline but similar high-stakes tension.
30 Days Free The Train Job (2002)
Description: From the TV series "Firefly," this episode features the crew of the spaceship Serenity pulling off a train heist on a remote planet. It's included for its unique setting and the clever execution of the heist.
Fact: "Firefly" was created by Joss Whedon, known for "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "The Avengers."
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