Train stations have always been a place of transition, mystery, and adventure. In the realm of science fiction, these bustling hubs become gateways to other worlds, time travel, and futuristic societies. This curated list of 10 sci-fi films set in train stations will take you on an extraordinary journey, blending the familiar with the fantastical. Whether it's the thrill of a chase through time or the intrigue of an alien encounter, these films showcase how train stations can be more than just a stopover; they can be the very heart of a story.

The Time Machine (1960)
Description: This classic film features a scientist who invents a time machine and travels to the future, with one of his stops being a futuristic train station where he encounters the Eloi.
Fact: The film's train station scene was inspired by the real-life Charing Cross Station in London. The film's special effects were groundbreaking for its time.


The Train (1964)
Description: Although not strictly sci-fi, this WWII thriller involves a train carrying priceless art, with the station becoming a battleground for its protection.
Fact: The film was shot in France, with real trains and stations used for authenticity. The plot was inspired by real events.


The Polar Express (2004)
Description: A magical train journey to the North Pole, where the train station becomes the gateway to a world of wonder and Christmas magic.
Fact: The film used motion capture technology to create realistic animations. The train in the film is based on the Pere Marquette 1225 steam locomotive.


The Terminal (2004)
Description: A man is trapped in JFK Airport due to a coup in his homeland, turning the airport into a sort of train station for his extended stay.
Fact: The film was inspired by the true story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years. The set for the airport was built at Universal Studios.


The Lake House (2006)
Description: A love story where a doctor and an architect communicate through a magical mailbox, with the train station being a key location for their time-displaced meetings.
Fact: The film was shot in Chicago, with scenes at the Chicago Union Station. The film's time-travel concept was inspired by the Korean film "Il Mare."


Source Code (2011)
Description: A soldier wakes up in the body of another man on a train that explodes. He must relive the same eight minutes to find the bomber, with the train station being a pivotal setting.
Fact: The film was shot in Chicago, with the train scenes filmed on the Metra Electric Line. The film's concept was inspired by the video game "The Last Express."


The Adjustment Bureau (2011)
Description: A man discovers that his life is being controlled by a mysterious group known as The Adjustment Bureau, with key scenes taking place in New York's Grand Central Terminal.
Fact: The film was partially shot in the actual Grand Central Terminal. The concept of the film is loosely based on a Philip K. Dick short story.


The Commuter (2018)
Description: An insurance salesman's daily commute turns into a high-stakes mystery involving a train station where he must identify a hidden passenger.
Fact: The film was shot on the Metro-North Railroad in New York. Liam Neeson performed many of his own stunts.


The Girl on the Train (2016)
Description: A woman's life spirals out of control as she becomes entangled in a murder investigation, with train stations playing a significant role in her daily routine and the unfolding mystery.
Fact: The film was shot in New York and London, with scenes at various train stations. The story is adapted from Paula Hawkins' bestselling novel.


The Signal (2014)
Description: A group of friends encounter an extraterrestrial signal that leads them to a mysterious train station where reality begins to unravel.
Fact: The film was shot in New Mexico, with the train station scenes adding to the eerie atmosphere. The film's ending leaves much to interpretation.
