Unstoppable

Synopsis: A runaway train carrying toxic chemicals must be stopped by any means possible.

Release Date: November 12, 2010     MPAA Rating: PG-13

Genre(s): Action,

Film Review

The veteran (Denzel Washington as Frank Barnes) and the Rookie (Chris Pine as Will Colson) were meant to have a typical day on the train tracks. What they got was an action-packed, thrill filled occasion due to one man’s stupid mistake. The 777 train was only supposed to be moved to another track to make way for an incoming train. Instead, in a sick twist of bad luck and mismanagement, it became a runaway train headed for Scranton, Pennsylvania – with enough hazardous chemicals on board to destroy the entire city. Tony Scott brings to life this based on true events story in Unstoppable and he delivers on the promise of an action-packed ride from start to finish. The train is the enemy of the film, coupled with corporate ridiculousness, where as things go from bad to worse to impossible it leaves two men to make the ultimate sacrifice to try and save the people of Scranton. The hero’s call Frank and Will answer is one out of moviemaking heaven and they measure up to the task easily. Scott remains consistent throughout, keeping the momentum flowing and suspense on high. With the news-esque style of cinematography and near-perfect cross cutting the film keeps the viewer informed from all angles of what is happening on the train, in the main office, and at the corporate level. As well as the onslaught of media coverage that ensues bringing the reality of the situation to the forefront. This is not an occurrence that happens remotely, away from the public eye, but right in the center of it all. As a viewer, you are pushed into it as well and the excitement of seeing two regular men go against what they are told to do and risk their livelihood’s to save the people they love, as well as strangers, makes for an action film that never lets up, but keeps moving along just like the runaway train.

The title of this film suits the action perfectly as it is an unstoppable ride once the movie catches its stride. With a train barreling down the tracks at speeds unheard of for a locomotive the tension and suspense of what will and does eventually happen will keep any viewer desperate for some alternative type action happy. This is a roller coaster ride that does not rely on fancy special effects to keep the momentum going. It is just the raw intense action of an out of control train and the methods real people in a real situation try to stop the impending catastrophe if the train derails. Tony Scott brings action to the screen from every direction, making an action craving audience responsive with every twist and turn.

Cast and Crew

• Director(s): Tony ScottTony ScottJulie Yorn
• Producer(s): Alex YoungMark Bomback
• Screenwriter(s): Denzel Washington (Frank Barnes)Chris Pine (Will Colson)Rosario Dawson (Connie Hooper)
• Story: 
• Cast:  Robert DuffyChris LebenzonBen Seresin
• Editor(s):
• Cinematographer: Harry Gregson-Williams
• Production Designer(s):
• Costume Designer: 
• Casting Director(s): Asylum VFX
• Music Score: Eye-Spy Productions
• Music Performed By: 
• Country Of Origin: