There's something uniquely gripping about films where the setting itself becomes a character in the story, especially when that setting is a bustling train station. These films not only showcase the chaos that can ensue when disaster strikes but also highlight the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. From natural calamities to man-made catastrophes, these movies provide a thrilling ride through the heart of transportation hubs, making for an unforgettable cinematic experience. Here's a curated list of ten disaster films set in train stations that you won't want to miss.
The Train (1964)
Description: Set during WWII, this film involves a train carrying art treasures, with scenes at train stations where the stakes are high, and disaster looms.
Fact: The film was shot in France, using real locations, including the Gare de Lyon in Paris.
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The Taking of Pelham 123 (1974)
Description: This classic thriller involves a hijacked subway train, with much of the action centered around the station, making it a unique entry in the disaster genre.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta, but the original remains a cult classic for its gritty realism.
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The Cassandra Crossing (1976)
Description: This film involves a train carrying passengers infected with a deadly virus, with a significant portion of the action taking place at a train station, showcasing the panic and chaos.
Fact: It was one of the first films to deal with the theme of biological terrorism.
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The Great Train Robbery (1978)
Description: Though more of a heist film, the climax involves a train station where the disaster of the robbery unfolds, making it a unique addition to this list.
Fact: The film was directed by Michael Crichton, better known for his work as a novelist.
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Runaway Train (1985)
Description: While the train itself is the main focus, the film's climax involves a dramatic sequence at a train station, highlighting the potential for disaster.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life incident involving a runaway train in Alaska.
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The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: While not exclusively set in a train station, a pivotal scene involves passengers at a New York train station dealing with the sudden onset of an ice age. The chaos and survival elements make it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use extensive CGI to depict weather phenomena. It also features a cameo by NASA's then-Administrator, Sean O'Keefe.
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Unstoppable (2010)
Description: Although primarily about a runaway train, the film's climax takes place at a train station where the disaster could potentially unfold, showcasing the tension and urgency of the situation.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the real-life CSX 8888 incident, where a train ran uncontrolled for 65 miles.
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The Commuter (2018)
Description: Liam Neeson stars in this thriller where a commuter's routine train ride turns into a high-stakes game of survival, with the train station playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama.
Fact: The film was shot in London, using real train stations like Paddington and Waterloo to add authenticity to the setting.
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The Ghost Train (1941)
Description: This British film, while not a modern disaster movie, involves a group of passengers stranded at a haunted train station, creating a suspenseful atmosphere akin to disaster films.
Fact: It was based on a play by Arnold Ridley, who later became famous for playing Private Godfrey in the TV series "Dad's Army."
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The Bullet Train (1975)
Description: This Japanese film, known as "The Bullet Train" in English, involves a terrorist threat on a high-speed train, with scenes at train stations adding to the tension.
Fact: It was remade in 2015 as "Bullet Train" with a different storyline but similar themes.
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