John Frankenheimer’s “The Train” (1964) is a gripping and visually stunning wartime drama that excels in both action and storytelling.

Set during the final days of World War II, the film follows a French Resistance effort to stop a train carrying stolen French art treasures from reaching Nazi Germany. This intense, high-stakes narrative is brought to life by a compelling cast, meticulous direction, and impressive practical effects.

Burt Lancaster stars as Paul Labiche, a determined and resourceful railway inspector reluctantly drawn into the Resistance’s plan. Lancaster’s physicality and understated performance anchor the film, portraying Labiche as a man driven not by ideology but by duty and circumstance. Paul Scofield delivers a chilling performance as Colonel Franz von Waldheim, the cultured yet ruthless German officer determined to transport the priceless art to Germany. The clash between these two strong-willed characters forms the crux of the film, adding layers of tension and drama.

“The Train” is notable for its commitment to realism. Frankenheimer’s decision to use real trains and practical effects rather than miniatures or studio sets adds a palpable sense of authenticity and danger. The sequences involving the sabotage and derailment of trains are particularly impressive, showcasing intricate choreography and stunning cinematography by Jean Tournier and Walter Wottitz. The stark black-and-white visuals enhance the film’s gritty, documentary-like feel, immersing the audience in the bleak wartime environment.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its exploration of the moral and philosophical questions surrounding the preservation of cultural heritage amidst the horrors of war. Labiche’s internal conflict and the broader ethical implications of risking human lives for art are poignantly portrayed, raising thought-provoking questions about the value of cultural treasures versus human life. This thematic depth elevates “The Train” above a typical action film, providing a rich narrative that resonates on multiple levels.