Night Train (2023)
Genre: Action / Thriller
Directed by: Shane Stanley
Starring: Danielle C. Ryan, Diora Baird, Abraham Benrubi, Joseph D. Reitman
Plot Summary:
Night Train follows Holly McCord (Danielle C. Ryan), a single mother and Hollywood teamster struggling to provide for her ailing son. Desperate for funds, she turns to smuggling black market medical supplies using her souped-up pickup truck, nicknamed “Night Train.” Her actions draw the attention of FBI Agent Jaylynne Jackson (Diora Baird), a PTSD-afflicted veteran determined to bring her down. As Holly races against time and law enforcement, she must navigate a treacherous path to save her son’s life .
Critical Reception:
The film has received predominantly negative reviews:
- The Guardian’s Leslie Felperin criticized the film’s execution, citing “cliché-riddled dialogue,” “stodgy pacing,” and “poorly developed characters,” noting that it fails to live up to its inspirations .
- Set The Tape highlighted pacing issues and a lack of cohesion between subplots, describing the film as not as high-octane as it aims to be .
- LouReviews mentioned that while the film appears to be action-packed, it lacks the expected excitement, with slow-paced set pieces and underdeveloped supporting characters .
Audience Feedback:
Viewer responses have been largely critical:
- A Reddit user described the film as “uncomfortably bad,” criticizing the cinematography and dialogue, and expressing disappointment in the character portrayals .
- On Letterboxd, reviews ranged from calling it “not good” with minimal action to likening it to “if Lifetime made a Fast and Furious movie,” indicating dissatisfaction with the film’s execution .
Conclusion:
Night Train attempts to blend emotional stakes with action-thriller elements but falls short due to its pacing, character development, and execution. While the premise holds potential, the film’s shortcomings have led to a lukewarm reception from both critics and audiences.
