Train crashes have always been a dramatic and intense plot device in cinema, offering a blend of suspense, action, and often, a deep dive into human emotions and survival instincts. This curated list of 10 films not only showcases the spectacle of train disasters but also explores the human stories behind these catastrophic events. From classic thrillers to modern blockbusters, these movies provide a thrilling experience for those fascinated by the power of trains and the chaos of derailments.

The Train (1964)
Description: During WWII, a French Resistance leader must prevent a train full of art treasures from reaching Germany, leading to a tense chase and potential derailment.
Fact: The film was shot on location in France, using real trains and actual WWII-era equipment.


The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: This classic thriller revolves around a hijacked subway train in New York City, leading to a tense standoff and a dramatic resolution involving a potential train crash.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta, but the original remains a cult classic for its gritty realism.


The Cassandra Crossing (1976)
Description: A terrorist attack on a train leads to a quarantine situation, and the train is rerouted to an unsafe bridge, the Cassandra Crossing, where a catastrophic crash is imminent.
Fact: The film features an all-star cast including Sophia Loren, Richard Harris, and Ava Gardner.


Silver Streak (1976)
Description: A book editor finds himself embroiled in a murder mystery on a train, leading to a series of comedic and thrilling events, culminating in a train crash.
Fact: This was one of the first major roles for Gene Wilder, who starred alongside Richard Pryor.


Unstoppable (2010)
Description: Inspired by true events, this film follows two railroad employees who must stop an unmanned, runaway train loaded with toxic chemicals before it derails and causes a catastrophe.
Fact: The film was based on the real-life CSX 8888 incident, where a train ran uncontrolled for two hours.


The Commuter (2018)
Description: A businessman's routine commute turns into a high-stakes game when he's tasked with finding a hidden passenger, leading to a tense situation on the train.
Fact: Liam Neeson stars in this thriller, showcasing his action-hero persona in a confined setting.


Night Train to Lisbon (2013)
Description: Although not directly about a crash, the film involves a journey on a train to Lisbon, with several dramatic moments that could lead to a derailment.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Pascal Mercier and stars Jeremy Irons.


The Great Train Robbery (1903)
Description: While not a crash per se, this silent film includes a dramatic train robbery scene that sets the stage for many future train-related action sequences.
Fact: It is considered one of the earliest narrative films and was directed by Edwin S. Porter.


The Ghost Train (1941)
Description: A group of stranded passengers encounter a mysterious train that seems to be haunted, leading to a suspenseful night filled with eerie events and a climactic train crash.
Fact: This film was based on a play by Arnold Ridley, who later became known for playing Private Godfrey in the British TV series "Dad's Army."


Runaway Train (1985)
Description: Two escaped convicts board a runaway train that is speeding towards disaster, creating a high-stakes survival scenario.
Fact: The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Jon Voight.
