Bullet Trains are Japan’s pride. From station management to train drivers, conductors, and the control room, everyone works diligently to errorlessly streamline their internal train system (which travels like a metro on a bigger scale). Just as the title suggests, a traveler plants bombs on the Hayabusa 5060B train and threatens to blow it up if they do not receive money. What happens next? Let’s see a detailed review. Is it hit or miss?
The Plot
The bullet train and bombing concept is not new to film lovers. There is already a string of films, and most will assume this is on the same bandwagon. But I guarantee you it’s not! The film shows the crew’s dedication, diligence, intelligence, and unity. It’s about the approach & seriousness of the train staff authorities to save every single life aboard.
The movie starts slowly by showcasing Japan’s bullet train history and its operation to school students who later board the train as part of the program. However, this normal Hayabusa 60B train journey from Shinkansen to Tokyo takes a wrong turn when an unknown call threatens the government with blasting the train if it gets below 100 km. In exchange for 1000 billion yen from the country’s citizens. Will passengers survive? How do train authorities respond? It all surrounds the remaining 2 hrs movie.
What’s so special about the movie?
The movie puts the audience in tension from beginning to end, just like a thriller. But it equally focuses on the whole procedure and the way authorities handle every obstacle to save all 399 members. Every government official, irrespective of the field, presents on the situation and takes immediate action; this gives a real thrill.
At one point, two trains happen to go on the same lane, and there is a possible collision. Then, station officials come up with a course of action with zero casualties & minimum collisions. Later, clearly show the plan with bullet train murals; this is an excellent move. Although the bullet system is new to many countries, if you watch the explanation and technique, it’s quite understandable and doesn’t abruptly cut the flow of suspense.
Cinematography
I believe cinematography, editing, and graphics are the powerhouse of this movie. As we go on, we will discover the beauty. The shooting of the HayaBusa train from different angles during the explosion, rescue, crossing different lanes, etc, is impeccable. The train is the real hero here. The way they shift focus at certain scenes in a film creates so much tension. Also, the preparation for the emergency and the train blast at the climax are so real. It felt like everything was real, not fiction.
Music and Sound Design
Music and sound design are placed perfectly, from panic sounds to explosions, even the camera sounds of media personnel are added for plausibility. If a movie like this is played in theaters, then expect how much impact and thrill the audience will feel. So, I highly recommend everyone watch it with headphones or earphones, it’s better.
Final Verdict
I think “Bullet Train Explosion” is one of Japan’s finest movies ever made. The amount of detail, hard work, and efficiency the film crew has put in is commendable. Also, all the actors are perfect, even though the blast was set up for personal vengeance, the way the train staff values everyone’s life and their respect for justice is commendable. This is one hell of a movie ride. So, do watch and enjoy this weekend.
Ratings: 4.8/5
Written by: Meghana Pinninti