photo: Pop Base / X (Twitter)/A shot from 'The Polar Express'
From festive classics to snowy thrillers, these train-themed films bring the magic of winter to life. Grab some cocoa, hop aboard, and let these stories transport you into the heart of adventure, mystery, and holiday cheer.
The New Year is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to curl up with movies and holiday tales. We’ve compiled a list of the best train-themed films to enjoy with your family, offering everything from heartwarming classics to thrilling mysteries—all set in the cozy charm of winter.
A Winter Classic: The Polar Express
One film that perfectly blends the magic of winter holidays with the romance of railways is the animated masterpiece, The Polar Express. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg, this timeless movie is a must-watch for families.
The story follows a young boy named Chris, who’s beginning to doubt the existence of Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, he hears a strange noise outside and discovers a train waiting in front of his house—on tracks that don’t exist. The train’s conductor invites him aboard for an unforgettable journey to the North Pole.
Onboard, Chris befriends other children, faces thrilling challenges, and even meets a mysterious hobo. As the Polar Express reaches Santa’s village, Chris embarks on a final adventure that restores his belief in the magic of Christmas. The iconic bell he receives from Santa rings only for those who believe—a fitting reminder of the season’s wonder.
Frozen Landscapes and a Legendary Mystery: Murder on the Orient Express
Next, we step into the frosty world of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. This legendary tale, set aboard the luxurious Orient Express, combines the suspense of a murder mystery with the beauty of snow-covered landscapes.
First brought to the screen in 1974 and reimagined in 2017 by Kenneth Branagh, this story follows famed detective Hercule Poirot. Tasked with solving the murder of a wealthy American businessman during the train’s journey from Istanbul to London, Poirot must untangle a web of lies from the thirteen passengers aboard. The tension rises as the train gets stuck in a snowdrift, adding to the film’s wintry charm.
Post-Apocalyptic Survival: Snowpiercer
For those who prefer action-packed stories, the post-apocalyptic thriller Snowpiercer offers a chilling perspective. Directed by Bong Joon-ho and inspired by the French graphic novel Le Transperceneige, this 2014 film tells the story of humanity’s last survivors, who live aboard a perpetually moving train in a frozen world.
The train is divided by class, with the elite living in luxury at the front while the oppressed suffer in the tail cars. Tensions boil over into rebellion, leading to a thrilling journey through the train’s hierarchy. The story explores themes of survival, inequality, and resilience, making it a thought-provoking winter watch.
Journey to Hogwarts: Harry Potter and the Hogwarts Express
No list would be complete without mentioning the Hogwarts Express. While not a traditional holiday film, the magic of the Harry Potter series, particularly its train scenes, captures the cozy, wintry spirit of the season.
Every year, the Hogwarts Express transports students to the wizarding world, making it one of the most iconic train rides in film history. Perfect for a family movie marathon, the Harry Potter series is guaranteed to bring joy to viewers of all ages during the holidays.
Romance on the Rails: Before Sunrise
If you’re in the mood for romance, Before Sunrise offers a heartwarming yet bittersweet story. Set aboard a train traveling to Vienna, the film follows two strangers, Jesse and Céline, who strike up a conversation and decide to spend a magical day exploring the city together.
Although not a holiday film, the themes of love and connection make it a perfect watch for the season. With its simple yet touching narrative, Before Sunrise captures the beauty of human relationships, reminding us of what truly matters during the holidays.
Source: RAILTARGET; Vanity Fair; ČSFD