The allure of armoured trains in cinema lies in their unique blend of historical significance and thrilling action. These films not only provide a glimpse into the past, showcasing the strategic importance of these formidable machines in warfare, but also offer a thrilling narrative filled with suspense, adventure, and often, a touch of nostalgia. This collection of ten films explores various facets of armoured trains, from their use in combat to their role in espionage and escape, providing a rich tapestry of stories for enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
The Iron Horse (1924)
Description: Although primarily about the construction of the transcontinental railroad, this silent epic features scenes with armoured trains during the Civil War, highlighting their use in battle.
Fact: The film was a major production for its time, with a budget of over $1 million.
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The General (1926)
Description: Buster Keaton's masterpiece involves a Confederate engineer who commandeers an armoured train to rescue his beloved and thwart Union spies, showcasing the train's tactical use.
Fact: Keaton performed many of his own stunts, including the famous train crash scene.
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The Great Locomotive Chase (1956)
Description: This Disney film recounts the true story of Union soldiers infiltrating Confederate lines to steal a train, which includes an armoured train segment, during the American Civil War.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use extensive location shooting for authenticity.
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The Train (1964)
Description: This classic film follows a French Resistance leader who must prevent a train carrying priceless art from reaching Nazi Germany. The armoured train plays a pivotal role in the plot, showcasing its strategic importance during WWII.
Fact: The film was inspired by real events, and the train used in the film was an actual WWII-era armoured train.
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The Train Robbers (1973)
Description: John Wayne stars in this Western where a group of men attempt to rob a train, which includes an armoured car, highlighting the train's defensive capabilities.
Fact: The film was shot in the scenic locations of Durango, Mexico.
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The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: While not an armoured train, the film features a subway train hijacking, which includes elements of armoured protection, making it a thematic fit for this list.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta.
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The Cassandra Crossing (1976)
Description: While not exclusively about an armoured train, this disaster film features a train with armoured elements that becomes a focal point for a deadly virus outbreak, leading to a thrilling race against time.
Fact: The film was shot on a real train, which was modified to look like an armoured train for certain scenes.
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The Narrow Margin (1952)
Description: This film noir features a detective escorting a witness on a train, which, while not armoured, has elements of protection and suspense akin to armoured train scenarios.
Fact: The film was remade in 1990 with Gene Hackman.
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The Last Train from Madrid (1937)
Description: Set during the Spanish Civil War, this film includes scenes with armoured trains used by both sides, illustrating their strategic deployment.
Fact: The film was one of the first to depict the Spanish Civil War on screen.
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The Iron Road (2009)
Description: This documentary explores the history of railways, including the use of armoured trains in various conflicts, providing historical context to the cinematic portrayals.
Fact: The film features interviews with historians and railway enthusiasts.
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