Bullet Train

I’ve always liked the ‘style’ or ‘substance’ debate with movies. There seems to be an overarching assumption that they are distinct categories but then something comes along to slot into the sweet spot between the two.

Bullet Train is one such example, taking the ‘train-set’ mantle from Snowpiercer and Murder On The Orient Express and supercharging it with the Tarantino-esque style of Bad Times At The El Royale, this is a brilliantly fun ride worth taking.

It’s one of those ‘just-silly-enough’ concepts, like John Wick before it (which, conveniently enough, shares a Director), where a number of assassins are placed on the same cross-country journey on the Japanese bullet train. As the plot develops we realise why they’re all there, how they link to each other and suitable mayhem ensues.

It delivers on exactly what it promises: humour (but not too much humour, and nothing to take away from the stakes or the violence), clever and unpredictable twists, rollicking action and serious style.

Going back to the earlier point, the style here is the substance. The colour palette and visual aesthetics of the train are essential, the ‘intro’ sequences (including, brilliantly, one for a water bottle) reveal more as the plot develops and the audio cues are well chosen.

It’s simply an immaculately well put together film; exciting, entertaining and perfect cinema fodder. Excellent performances, hilarious cameos and snakes on a train. A service worth boarding.

4 stars ****