Subway systems are not just for commuting; they're also the perfect setting for high-octane action movies. From thrilling chases to intense shootouts, these films utilize the claustrophobic and labyrinthine nature of underground transit to create suspense and excitement. Here's a curated list of 10 action-packed films set in the metro, offering viewers a thrilling ride through tunnels of danger and intrigue.

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: A classic heist film where a group of criminals hijack a New York City subway train, demanding a ransom for the passengers. The tension builds as the police and the hijackers engage in a battle of wits and time.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta. The original film's title refers to the train's departure time from Pelham Bay Park station.


Subway (1985)
Description: A French action thriller where a fugitive hides out in the Paris Metro, leading to a series of adventures and encounters with various characters. The film's stylish visuals and fast-paced narrative make it a standout.
Fact: The film was directed by Luc Besson, who would later become famous for "The Fifth Element" and "Léon: The Professional."


The Midnight Meat Train (2008)
Description: Based on a Clive Barker short story, this horror film follows a photographer who discovers a sinister secret behind the late-night subway trains in New York City.
Fact: The film features a cameo by Clive Barker himself.


The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)
Description: A modern remake of the 1974 film, this version adds a contemporary twist to the classic subway heist, with intense action sequences and a gripping performance by John Travolta.
Fact: The film was shot in New York City, using real subway trains for authenticity.


The Commuter (2018)
Description: Liam Neeson stars as an insurance salesman caught in a criminal conspiracy during his daily commute on a train. The film cleverly uses the confined space of the train to build suspense.
Fact: The film was shot on a real commuter train in New York, adding authenticity to the setting.


The Ghost Train (1941)
Description: Although more of a thriller than an action film, this British classic involves passengers stranded at a remote station, facing mysterious and eerie events linked to a legendary ghost train.
Fact: The film was remade several times, with the 1931 version being particularly well-known.


The Incident (1967)
Description: A gritty, realistic portrayal of a group of passengers trapped on a New York City subway car with two menacing thugs. The film explores themes of fear, courage, and human nature.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in the New York City subway system.


The Tunnel (2001)
Description: This German film tells the true story of a group of East Berliners who dig a tunnel under the Berlin Wall to escape to the West, showcasing the tension and danger of their underground journey.
Fact: The film was based on real events and the tunnel was actually built by the characters portrayed in the movie.


The Tunnel (2011)
Description: While not strictly an action movie, this Australian found footage horror film involves journalists investigating disappearances in Sydney's abandoned railway tunnels, leading to terrifying encounters.
Fact: The film was released for free online, making it one of the first feature films to do so.


The Subway (2016)
Description: A South Korean thriller where a man must navigate through a series of dangerous events in the Seoul subway system to save his daughter from kidnappers.
Fact: The film uses real-time storytelling to increase the tension, with the entire plot unfolding over the course of one subway ride.
