30 Facts About The Movie The Great Train Robbery

The Great Train Robbery was directed by Michael Crichton

Best known as the author of Jurassic Park, Michael Crichton took on the role of director for The Great Train Robbery. This was Crichton’s fourth directorial venture and showcased his talent for creating suspenseful and thrilling narratives.

Key actors in the movie include Sean Connery and Donald Sutherland

Sean Connery and Donald Sutherland played the lead roles in The Great Train Robbery, adding star power to the film. Connery portrayed Edward Pierce, a mastermind thief, while Sutherland played the role of Robert Agar, a talented lock-picker.

The movie was set in Victorian-era England

The Great Train Robbery is set in London during the late 19th century, perfectly capturing the atmosphere of Victorian England. The meticulously crafted sets and costumes transport the audience back in time, immersing them in the era.

The Great Train Robbery was based on a novel by the same name

The movie is an adaptation of the 1975 novel “The Great Train Robbery” by Michael Crichton. The book itself was inspired by the historical event it portrays, drawing from the meticulous research conducted by Crichton.

The movie features a meticulously planned heist

Edward Pierce, the mastermind thief portrayed by Sean Connery, meticulously plans the robbery of a gold shipment from a moving train. The intricate details of the heist, from timing to disguises, keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

The Great Train Robbery was praised for its attention to detail

The movie received critical acclaim for its meticulous attention to detail, capturing the essence of Victorian England. From the architecture to the costumes, every aspect of the film was carefully crafted to create an authentic and immersive experience.

It was one of the first movies to use computer-generated imagery (CGI)

The Great Train Robbery featured one of the earliest uses of computer-generated imagery in the film industry. This revolutionary technique was used to create the illusion of the moving train and enhance the action sequences.

The movie was a box office success

The Great Train Robbery was a commercial success, grossing over $35 million worldwide. Its thrilling storyline and stellar performances by the cast contributed to its popularity among audiences.

The soundtrack was composed by Jerry Goldsmith

The captivating score for The Great Train Robbery was composed by Jerry Goldsmith. His music perfectly complemented the tension and excitement of the film, further intensifying the viewing experience.

The Great Train Robbery received an Academy Award nomination

The movie was nominated for Best Score at the 52nd Academy Awards, recognizing the outstanding musical contribution by Jerry Goldsmith. Although it didn’t win, the nomination further solidified the film’s critical acclaim.

Some of the scenes were shot on location in Ireland

To capture the authenticity of Victorian-era England, some scenes were filmed on location in Ireland. The picturesque landscapes and historical buildings provided the perfect backdrop for the movie.

The movie showcases the technological advancements of the time

The Great Train Robbery highlights the technological advancements of the late 19th century, such as the telegraph system and steam-powered trains. These details add depth to the narrative and immerse the audience in the industrial era.

The Great Train Robbery inspired other heist movies

The movie’s success and its captivating portrayal of a well-executed heist inspired a new wave of crime films. Filmmakers sought to emulate its thrilling plot and intricate planning in their own movies.

The movie features an iconic chase sequence

One of the most memorable scenes in The Great Train Robbery is the thrilling chase sequence through the crowded streets of London. This heart-pounding pursuit between the thieves and the authorities keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Great Train Robbery is often considered a classic crime caper

With its engaging storyline, talented cast, and attention to detail, The Great Train Robbery has earned its place as a classic crime caper. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.

The movie was praised for its historical accuracy

The Great Train Robbery received praise for its commitment to historical accuracy. The filmmakers took great care in recreating the time period, ensuring that every aspect, from costumes to set design, was faithful to the era.

The Great Train Robbery was a departure from Michael Crichton’s previous works

Known for his science fiction novels, The Great Train Robbery marked a departure from Michael Crichton’s usual genre. It showcased his versatility as a storyteller and further solidified his reputation as a talented filmmaker.

The movie explores themes of greed and obsession

The Great Train Robbery delves into themes of greed and obsession, as the characters become consumed by the pursuit of wealth. These themes add depth to the storyline and offer interesting insights into human nature.

The Great Train Robbery is based on a true story

The movie is based on the infamous Great Train Robbery that occurred on August 8, 1963, in England. A gang of criminals known as the “The Firm” carried out the audacious heist, making off with £2.6 million (equivalent to £53 million today).

The movie pays homage to the original heist

In a nod to the real-life Great Train Robbery, the movie incorporates key elements of the actual crime. The attention to detail adds authenticity to the narrative and enhances the overall viewing experience.

The Great Train Robbery features elaborate disguises

To carry out the heist, the characters in the movie don elaborate disguises to conceal their identities. This adds an element of intrigue and suspense to the plot, as the audience wonders if the thieves will be caught.

The movie showcases the cat-and-mouse game between the thieves and the authorities

The Great Train Robbery showcases the tense cat-and-mouse game between the thieves and the relentless authorities determined to bring them to justice. This constant battle of wits keeps the audience engaged throughout the film.

The Great Train Robbery makes use of clever sleight-of-hand tricks

The movie incorporates clever sleight-of-hand tricks to keep the audience guessing and add an element of surprise. These well-executed illusions elevate the heist sequences and showcase the characters’ skill and audacity.

The Great Train Robbery was shot on a tight budget

Despite its grand scale and period setting, The Great Train Robbery was made on a relatively modest budget. This is a testament to the filmmakers’ creativity and resourcefulness in bringing the thrilling story to life.

The movie highlights the ingenuity of the thieves

The Great Train Robbery showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the thieves involved in the heist. Their ability to plan and execute such a daring crime highlights their intelligence and adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story.

The Great Train Robbery is known for its thrilling climax

The movie builds up to a climactic finale that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The tension reaches its peak as the thieves face numerous obstacles in their attempt to escape with the stolen loot.

The Great Train Robbery stands the test of time

Even after several decades, The Great Train Robbery continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling storyline and memorable characters. Its timeless appeal and enduring popularity make it a classic among heist movies.

The Great Train Robbery was a breakthrough role for Sean Connery

Sean Connery’s portrayal of the charismatic thief Edward Pierce in The Great Train Robbery helped solidify his status as a leading man. It showcased his versatility as an actor and further propelled his career to new heights.

The movie sparked public interest in the Great Train Robbery

The release of The Great Train Robbery reignited public interest in the real-life crime that inspired the film. The audacious nature of the heist and the meticulous planning involved continue to fascinate people to this day.

The Great Train Robbery remains a must-watch for film enthusiasts

With its thrilling storyline, talented cast, and attention to detail, The Great Train Robbery remains a must-watch for film enthusiasts and fans of the heist genre. Its legacy as a classic crime caper is well-deserved, securing its place in cinema history.

So there you have it – 30 fascinating facts about the movie The Great Train Robbery. Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers or simply appreciate great storytelling, this film has something to offer. Sit back, grab some popcorn, and prepare to be transported into the world of master thieves and exhilarating heists!

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Great Train Robbery is a classic movie that has captivated audiences for decades. It is not only a thrilling heist story but also a pioneer in the history of filmmaking. With its groundbreaking techniques and innovative storytelling, it revolutionized the way movies were made.The film’s success can be attributed to its talented cast, led by the legendary Sean Connery, as well as its skilled director, Michael Crichton. The Great Train Robbery remains a timeless cinematic experience that continues to entertain and inspire audiences to this day.Whether you’re a fan of heist movies, a history buff, or simply appreciate great filmmaking, The Great Train Robbery is a must-watch. Its blend of action, suspense, and historical context makes it a truly unforgettable movie that has stood the test of time.

FAQs

1. When was The Great Train Robbery released?

The Great Train Robbery was released on December 14, 1978.

2. Who directed The Great Train Robbery?

The movie was directed by Michael Crichton, who also wrote the screenplay based on his own novel.

3. Is The Great Train Robbery based on a true story?

No, The Great Train Robbery is a fictional story. However, it was inspired by real events and historical figures.

4. Who are the main actors in The Great Train Robbery?

The film stars Sean Connery, Donald Sutherland, and Lesley-Anne Down in the lead roles.

5. What makes The Great Train Robbery significant in film history?

The Great Train Robbery is considered significant because of its innovative techniques, such as split-screen editing and hand-held cameras, which were ahead of their time and influenced future filmmakers.

6. How long is The Great Train Robbery?

The movie has a runtime of approximately 110 minutes.

7. Has The Great Train Robbery won any awards?

Yes, the film won the Saturn Award for Best Director in 1979.

8. Can I stream The Great Train Robbery online?

The availability of the movie for streaming may vary depending on your region and streaming platforms. It is recommended to check with popular streaming services or online retailers.

9. Is The Great Train Robbery suitable for all audiences?

The Great Train Robbery is rated PG and can be enjoyed by a wide range of audiences. However, it does contain some action and suspenseful sequences.

10. Are there any sequels or remakes of The Great Train Robbery?

No, there have been no official sequels or remakes of The Great Train Robbery.