The allure of disaster films lies in their ability to showcase human resilience against overwhelming odds. This curated list dives into the heart-pounding world of railway nodes, where trains, tracks, and stations become the epicenters of chaos. From derailments to terrorist attacks, these films offer a thrilling ride through the perils that can befall our interconnected rail systems. Whether you're a fan of suspense, action, or just love trains, these movies will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Train (1964)
Description: During World War II, a French Resistance leader must stop a train carrying priceless art from being taken by the Nazis, showcasing the strategic importance of railway nodes in wartime.
Fact: The film was shot on location in France, using real trains and tracks. Burt Lancaster performed many of his own stunts, including jumping on and off moving trains.


The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: A classic heist film where a group of hijackers take control of a New York City subway train, demanding a ransom for the passengers' lives. The film's tension is heightened by the intricate details of the subway system.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta. The original subway car used in the movie was preserved and can be seen at the New York Transit Museum.


The Cassandra Crossing (1976)
Description: A train carrying passengers is rerouted onto a dangerous bridge known as the Cassandra Crossing, leading to a race against time to save the passengers from a catastrophic collapse.
Fact: The film features an international cast including Sophia Loren, Richard Harris, and Ava Gardner. The bridge collapse was a major special effects sequence for its time.


Silver Streak (1976)
Description: A book editor finds himself in a comedic yet perilous situation when he boards a train and gets involved in a murder mystery, showcasing the chaos that can ensue on a train journey.
Fact: The film was a major box office success and helped establish Gene Wilder as a leading man in comedy films. The train used in the movie was a real Amtrak train.


Unstoppable (2010)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a runaway train carrying hazardous chemicals, threatening to derail in a populated area. The race to stop it involves two unlikely heroes and showcases the vulnerability of rail transport.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life CSX 8888 incident in


The Commuter (2018)
Description: An insurance salesman's daily commute turns into a high-stakes game of survival when he's embroiled in a criminal conspiracy on a train. The film uses the train as a confined space for suspense.
Fact: Liam Neeson performed many of his own stunts in this film. The movie was shot on a real commuter train, adding to its authenticity.


Night Train to Lisbon (2013)
Description: While not a traditional disaster film, this movie involves a journey on a train that leads to a series of life-changing events for the protagonist, showcasing the transformative power of rail travel.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Pascal Mercier. Jeremy Irons stars as the lead, and much of the movie was shot on actual trains in Portugal and Switzerland.


The Ghost Train (1941)
Description: A group of passengers are stranded at a remote railway station where they encounter a ghostly train that appears at midnight, leading to a mix of horror and comedy.
Fact: This film is based on a play by Arnold Ridley, who later became famous for playing Private Godfrey in the British sitcom "Dad's Army."


Runaway Train (1985)
Description: Two escaped convicts board a train that becomes a runaway due to a series of unfortunate events, leading to a high-stakes chase through the Alaskan wilderness.
Fact: The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Jon Voight. It was also inspired by a real-life incident in 1975 involving a runaway train in Alaska.


The Bullet Train (1975)
Description: A Japanese bullet train faces a bomb threat, and the film explores the tension and heroism of those trying to save the passengers, highlighting the vulnerabilities of high-speed rail systems.
Fact: This film was remade in Hollywood as "Speed" in
