Top 10 Movies Set Entirely on a Train

Trains are more than just a way to travel—they’re rolling stages for drama, suspense, and action. Movies set entirely on a train crank up the tension, trapping characters in tight spaces with nowhere to run, making every moment count.

I’ve picked 10 of the best films that unfold completely on a train, from chilling mysteries to wild action rides. Each one uses the setting to drive the story. Let’s hop aboard and explore these captivating journeys.

‘The Lady Vanishes’ (1938)

Hitchcock’s classic follows a young woman, played by Margaret Lockwood, searching for a missing passenger on a European train. The old-school mystery vibe drew me in.

Her quest uncovers spies and deception, with clever twists, though the dated effects might feel creaky. I loved the sharp dialogue and mounting suspense.

‘Narrow Margin’ (1990)

Gene Hackman’s cop protects a witness on a train from hitmen in this tense remake. The gritty action premise hooked me.

Tight corridors and high-speed chases keep it thrilling, but the plot leans predictable. I enjoyed Hackman’s gruff charm and the claustrophobic stakes.

‘Runaway Train’ (1985)

Jon Voight and Eric Roberts play escaped convicts on a brakeless train hurtling through Alaska. The wild setup caught my eye.

Their fight for survival against the elements and each other is raw, though some drama feels overdone. I was gripped by the relentless pace and icy tension.

‘Transsiberian’ (2008)

Woody Harrelson and Emily Mortimer’s couple encounters danger on a snowy train route. The dark thriller angle pulled me in.

Drug smuggling and betrayal unfold in tight quarters, though the pacing dips midway. I liked the moody atmosphere and Kate Mara’s edgy role.

‘Unstoppable’ (2010)

Denzel Washington’s engineer races to stop a runaway freight train carrying toxic cargo. The real-life-inspired story hooked me.

The ticking-clock action and teamwork keep it intense, though the stakes feel repetitive. I cheered for Washington’s steady heroics and the breakneck speed.

‘Snowpiercer’ (2013)

Chris Evans leads a revolt on a train carrying humanity’s last survivors in a frozen world. The sci-fi dystopia grabbed my attention.

Class warfare and brutal fights drive the story, though some twists stretch belief. I loved the bold visuals and Tilda Swinton’s wild performance.

‘The Taking of Pelham 123’ (2009)

Denzel Washington faces off against John Travolta’s hijacker on a New York subway. The high-stakes remake drew me in.

Tense negotiations and fast action grip you, but the villain’s motives feel shaky. I enjoyed the cat-and-mouse game and Washington’s cool-headed lead.

‘Source Code’ (2011)

Jake Gyllenhaal’s soldier relives eight minutes on a doomed train to stop a bombing. The time-loop sci-fi hooked me instantly.

Each repeat ramps up the mystery, though the tech jargon can confuse. I was glued to the clever twists and Gyllenhaal’s desperate race.

‘Strangers on a Train’ (1951)

Hitchcock’s thriller traps two men in a twisted murder-swap plot on a train. The chilling premise pulled me in.

Mind games and dark humor build suspense, though the old style might not grab everyone. I loved the creepy vibe and Farley Granger’s nervous energy.

‘Murder on the Orient Express’ (2017)

Kenneth Branagh’s Poirot investigates a murder on a lavish train, with a star-packed cast. The classic whodunit vibe hooked me.

Clues and suspects pile up in style, though the resolution feels tidy. I was charmed by the lush visuals and Branagh’s quirky detective.

Which train-set movie kept you glued to the tracks, or did I miss a rail-riding gem? Share your favorite in the comments!