A gripping World War II thriller masterfully blending action and historical drama. Set in 1944, the film follows the French Resistance’s efforts to stop a Nazi officer, Colonel Von Waldheim (Paul Scofield), from transporting stolen art masterpieces to Germany aboard a train. Burt Lancaster stars as Labiche, a railway inspector reluctantly drawn into the resistance’s desperate mission.
In addition to the film’s raw authenticity (using real trains and practical effects to give a visceral intensity to the action sequences), themes of sacrifice and the value of art over human life are powerfully explored, challenging our perceptions of war and morality. The Train remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its suspenseful storytelling and poignant exploration of humanity amid conflict.
The film’s black-and-white cinematography enhances its gritty realism and makes it a must-see on a big screen.
Presented by Shrewsbury Film Society as part of Art of Action, a UK-wide film season supported by National Lottery and BFI Film Audience Network.