Train Ride (2000) User Reviews

Extraordinary Film!!!

[pwmoses · 10/10 · 5 May 2000]

This film was tremendous for a first time writer and producer. Rel Dowdell shows maturity beyond his years. Train Ride is a multi-racial stimulating film. I believe this subject is over due for exposure to society. Mr. Dowdell's view of this topic will educate while entertaining all cultures. The film covered every emotion and captivated my attention from beginning to end. I am anxiously awaiting more enlightening works from REL DOWDELL.

What can happen in college if you're not careful

[leottared · 10/10 · 3 January 2005]

I saw this movie and think it is worth showing in all communities. I especially feel there is a strong message to high school female who are looking forward to College. I think our young people think that entering college is getting away from Mom and Dad, party, party and just letting their hair down. Although there are some sexual scenes, I feel High School seniors are ready to get an idea of the "real deal" This doesn't frighten students about college. We all know, an education is needed. There is just a "WAKE UP CALL" Thomas Braxton does an excellent acting job when he takes the blame for his actions. This being Ester Rhoes last movie, it could be a tribute to her.

A transcendent film about a issue few acknowledge.

[ataubman-1 · 10/10 · 3 March 2005]

Train Ride shines a bright light onto the issue of alcohol related rape that happens on an all to frequent basis. Mr. Dowdell is able to take such a sensitive issue and use the film to show viewers the other side of the issue. A very impressive first film from a black director for all races to experience.

This is a film that needs to be shown as part of all college orientations. With the popularity of graphic movies with the youth of today a film like this delivers a message that might not otherwise be received.

If "Train Ride" can create a dialogue on this issue it has done it's job.

Da Jump Off!

[NOHAMM123 · 9/10 · 26 December 2004]

Man, I really liked this film for many of the reasons the last person said. The story, the writing/directing, and the fresh faced cast all provide unforgettable ingredients to this intrepid independent film effort. Whoever financed this film and whoever puts it out should be commended. Harris (from the HBO show "The Wire"), MC Lyte, Hornsby (Leon from ESPN'S "Playmakers"), Prescott and Braxton were extremely good in their roles, all of which were vastly different. My favorite rapper Guru from Gang Starr ("I get more props and stunts than Bruce Willis!" That's from the classic song "Dwick" for you non hip-hop heads) and Joe Clair were very cool in their supporting roles. I remember seeing the pretty Caucasian girl at the end of the movie recently in "The Grudge." And to top it off, the film was the iconic Esther Rolle's last film. She plays the Dean of the school, which is a very dignified and appropriate role for the last performance of her legendary, crusading career. You can see she was really giving it her all on screen in the scenes she was in. That says a lot for the filmmaker. What really bothers me is, why doesn't Hollywood give filmmakers like Dowdell and other African-Americans who make bold, important, yet entertaining films the big stage canvas they deserve? Filmmakers like the aforementioned would give Hollywood the creative (and responsible) diversity it is sorely lacking right now. Right now, every black film is about a hair salon, a cookout (I walked out of that film and asked for my money back), or a step and fetch, sambo comedy. I'd rather see a film like "Train Ride" anytime, and you should too. It was "DA JUMP OFF!"

Excellent

[twinis4u · 10/10 · 29 August 2005]

The movie was very entertaining. I let my niece watch the movie before she left for college, and then gave it to her so that she could let her other friends see it as well. I know that this movie will give her and her friends something to think about as well as how they should conduct themselves as young ladies while being away at school. I rate this movie a ten (10) out of ten. The actors/ actresses were excellent. I was happy to see Esther Rolle in this movie for the last time before she passed on. She was great also. I, too was in this movie and it was a great experience. Although I didn't have any speaking parts, It was very exciting. Thank you Rel Dowdell for this movie. [e-mail]

Excellent!

[detra55 · 10/10 · 20 April 2000]

Train Ride is one the best independent films I've seen since Spike Lee first got started. Remember when you first went to college and how grown-up you thought you were? Then being introduced to that one person that made you realize that you still have a lot to learn. Date rape is a very serious matter on every college campus that should not be taken lightly. Rel Dowdel does an excellent job showing you if you don't take responsibility for your actions someone else will. This is definitely a movie everyone can relate to whether you're in school, graduated or know someone about to take that challenge.

Rel Dowdell's movies are "Changing the Game"

[trulyvanes · 10/10 · 14 December 2009]

I really enjoyed Rel Dowdell's universal and powerful debut feature film effort, "Train Ride." The performances and storyline were very realistic and poignant. I'm definitely looking forward to Mr. Dowdell's next film effort! This film could have taken the low road on many occasions but took the high road every time. It's gritty and tough, but tasteful. You don't see that much with films nowadays. The characters' plights are always treated with realness and care. Even the characters who morals are in question are not treated shabbily. The viewer is rightfully left to come up with their own conclusion. This makes for a message that resonates long after it's been seen on the screen. I can always appreciate seeing black characters on screen in three-dimensional and responsible form. Two thumbs up!

Thought provoking and exciting.

[sdash · 10/10 · 30 May 2000]

Rel Dowdell has outdone himself in the production of Train Ride. His talent is exemplary of what is to come in the near future. The movie itself portrays a real life issue that exists on any college campus, "Date Rape". He has brought this issue to the fore front through Train Ride and I highly reccommend that anyone entering college or that ia a current college student see this movie. But the reccomendation is not limited there. This movie was thought provoking and had such an emotional impact on me that I find myself thinking about it quite often. The movie should be seen by all ages and all audiences. Date rape is a real issue. If there is any speculation that it is not, then Train Ride is the cure to that speculation. Wood Harris and MC Lyte were exceptional in their roles. The characters were very realistic in their portrayals. Great job Rel!

LONG OVERDUE

[vliq913 · 10/10 · 14 January 2001]

Move over Spike Lee, Rel Dowdell is coming through,another great one out of Philly. When I heard TRAIN RIDE I didn't know what to expect but seeing is believing this is a great piece of film work. I was nothing short of amazed by the acting and quality of this film. This is a must see. With a long overdue point to be expressed. I look towards seeing more of Rel Dowdell's work soon.

A MUST SEE MOVIE!!

[favoredbyhim · 10/10 · 28 November 2020]

This film was an awesome movie that depicted the realities of college life. It was very well written and very well Directed by Rel Dowdell. The Acting was phenomenal and everyone did a fantastic job. Kudos to the Director and the Production for this awesome film. It definitely is a must see movie!

A relevant, multi-dimensional cautionary tale well worth seeing

[iactms · 10/10 · 25 February 2006]

Train Ride is indicative of a film-making ethic rarely embraced in our 21st century post-modern society. Namely, it is a de facto public service announcement in the form of a fairly realistic narrative - it's "film with purpose". For this reason alone, it's worth seeing. But far from being the kind of cheesy, one-dimensional "just say no" story many of us remember from ABC After-School Specials or the canned films shown in 70's and 80's high school "Health" classes... Train Ride also manages to deliver multi-dimensional character portrayals and entertaining interludes that keep the story both interesting and true-to-life. The chilling performance bestowed by Wood Harris, in particular, gives this film an edge that drives home the ugliness of the film's central issue. Also notable are the powerful performances of both Russell Hornsby and MC Lyte, the latter doing a wonderful job of making the transition from musician to legitimate actress. And Esther Rolle, though appearing only briefly, lends a kind of depth to this movie that few others could. When all is said and done, this film is effective in driving its point home, and is powerful enough to do something else that few films truly manage to do: to inspire people to actually think deeply about the core issue long after the final credits have rolled.

Inspirational

[cruzale · 10/10 · 16 June 2006]

Rel came to a unity event for high school seniors to present his film and talk to us afterward. This was an eye opening and breath taking experience. This movie really opened up my eyes to the harsh realities of life. People can be so cruel sometimes and being a teenage girl, I feel like this showed me to be much more cautious. As I will be entering college in the fall of 2007, watching movies such as "Train Ride" help to influence me on what is right and wrong and what I will partake in. I am very grateful that this movie was created and glad that I got to see this because it has had a major effect on me. I know what precautions I should take when I'm in college at parties and such. Hopefully, from watching this movie and speaking with Rel, I can share these harsh realities with friends and they too can be cautious about such things. This movie was very inspirational and really moved me.

Outstanding "Must See" Movie

[nlee01-1 · 10/10 · 9 April 2006]

This movie was Outstanding and should be viewed by high school seniors and college freshmen.

I purchased this DVD via amazon.com and allowed my co-worker to view it. She later told me that she was talking to her friend about Train Ride and found out her friend had already purchased the DVD when it came out. They both said the movie was educational and a great film to watch.

This film provides insight and awareness on drugs, rape, and human behavior.

Very Educational!!!! I could watch it again.

The actors/actresses did a great job with the characters they portrayed.

Looking forward to seeing the next movie from this Director/Writer in the future!

Train Ride

[kyhurdle · 10/10 · 12 February 2006]

Rel did an excellent job with the creation of each character. Ican tell he did his homework on how to create the perfect sociopath and what rape trauma does to a person. Rel also did an excellent job at making sure that the subject matter was handled delicately. Wood Harris did an excellent job at playing the part of will and making his character come alive. He made me not like him. Katrina's character was so believable and you could not help but feel sorry for her. I am very proud of Rel. I think this should be viewed by all college freshmen and high school seniors. I thank Rel for making this movie and raising the awareness. I think in order to prevent this (date rape) from occurring more and more people need to be educated.

Great Movie, good premise

[rogerwu99 · 8/10 · 1 March 2005]

i saw this movie at the Philadelphia premiere on 2/25. i thought that this movie was well put together with a good message, decent acting, and excellent production value. i'm glad that will got it in the end although it was kind of depressing that everyone dies (including Ron getting locked up, i'm assuming). i was hoping that will suffered the same fate as Ron's big friend since Will almost got off. mc lyte took the award for acting as i could definitely tell her depression and it seemed that she not only changed her mind mentally but her body physically! the theater was packed for the only 2 showings...i am sure that when this film gets distributed people will be talking! 6 years was well worth the wait! watch for director Rel in the future!

Perfect drama with a real flavor

[drjay25 · 10/10 · 25 December 2005]

This movie has no flaws except for the fact that it should have been given a bigger budget. This is one of the few movies I have seen that actually made me want to go out and buy it. Based on the amount of memorable moments within it. Rel Dowdell's directing is flawless and the character played by Wood Harris is one of the most thought provoking characters I have ever witnessed. Anyone who is a true fan of movies should be without this film. A film for the ages that should be cherished by all. This is a four star movie by all means.A+ material and directing combined to form a classic. This movie has inspired me so much that I must share it with all I know.

Must see for all college bound student

[smoothchocolatedrop · 10/10 · 2 February 2006]

Through out the entire movie, I was on the edge of my seat anticipating plots, reading the characters and reflecting back to my college days.

All students should view it, especially if they are planning to go to college. Today's students think they have street smarts and can step w/ the big boys and have all the answers, but watching this movie will let them know that they have not quite arrived. They will learn how to avoid some of the pit falls that college students encounter.

This film should be apart of each high school senior week. Taking it one step further, "Train Ride" should become apart of every high school curriculum. Schools should incorporate course work that will aid students in really surviving when they get to college. Parents should see the movie as well.

My prayer is for "Train Ride" to be shown and featured just like all the other box office hits, because it's a story worth telling. The movie goes beyond racial lines, etc., because the message is universal.

tense, taut, smart drama/thriller

[smartgetdown · 10/10 · 29 December 2005]

Many good films combine genres very effectively and don't play it straight. For instance, a straight-ahead comedy or horror film. "Train Ride" is a very well done, polished drama and thriller that excellent execution and performances. Wood Harris has NEVER been better in anything else he's been in. Someone should have shown this film to Natalie Holloway and her family before she went to Aruba. It probably would have saved her life. Check this film out by any means necessary. It's the truth, straight no chaser. Many people are in denial that the event that happen in "Train Ride" could happen to them. Guess what? It's happening unfortunately right now to someone.

Every person in high school should see this movie.

[pamelalyyn · 9/10 · 27 December 2005]

Train Ride is the reality of every high school and college in the world. The race of students in these environments is of no importance. The responses to the situations our young people find themselves in are. If every young adult sees this movie they WILL remember when life shows up. I have bought this movie for every young adult I know of this age and they have all come back to me to discuss it. If we provoke the minds of our children before things happen the will react before things like this happen. I think not one girl thinks date rape could happen to her and this is what makes her vulnerable. I also think no young man realizes how quickly things get out of hand. If more films exposed true life the way this film did our society would not be in the unemotional and immoral state it is in. I would like to commend the writer of this film for his boldness and I am looking forward to more work from him.

Extraordinary Film-making

[DThrilla · 10/10 · 29 August 2005]

Rel Dowdell has captured the essence of college life and the pitfalls that exist for innocent students. The writing, directing, and acting are believable, thus creating real-life scenarios that carry a strong messages that are preventive in nature. Should be standard viewing for high school seniors and incoming freshmen. The cast of the movie, including Wood Harris and M.C. Lyte, give testimony to the fact that the script was worthwhile. Esther Rolle's decision to be involved, gives the film coveted distinction of being the last portrayal of a legendary actress on film. Train Ride represents a stunning debut of a very talented young man who has a sense of the importance of quality in producing work. One can only look forward with great anticipation at the future offerings of Mr. Rel Dowdell.

Awesome

[tracy-betterson · 9/10 · 4 March 2005]

This film touched my heart. It was an eyeopener of how young people ruin their potential enhancement in life just to have fun. Although this film's setting in on a college campus, it's a reminder that too much partying in real life (without careful thinking) can destroy lives!

The movie can be an viewed as a story of wisdom, an inspiration, the importance of family support and friendship, an insight to college living or simply a college learning lesson. There is so much the audience can value from the film. This movie is on the road to independent success!

Rel Dowdell used his imagination and applied some truth to reach the young generation. Although there was humor and tragedy in the film, it did not take away from the moral of the story. College students will remember the importance and purpose of an education.

Don't Miss this Train!!!

[WanNew · 10/10 · 3 March 2005]

This experience called "Train Ride" is one to be discussed, debated and distinguished. It should be discussed because its topic is so important and prevalent that the movie is long overdue. The debate is needed because it will educate young people on the taboo topic of date rape and what makes a rape a rape. It will be distinguished because it provided what so many other African American movies lack....purpose. Aside from the objective of the movie being so poignant, the performances were equally as impressive. Each character was believable and the interaction between the characters seemed effortless. I was extremely moved by two particular scenes. The first involved Will (Wood Harris) being confronted by Stephanie (Nicole Prescott). The other was the confrontation between Will and Ellis (Russell Hornsby). Both scenes were dramatic in different ways, but equally as moving. The comic relief that was peppered throughout the movie kept the viewer from becoming too melancholy, but was sparse enough to keep you focused. I am proud to recommend this movie to anyone. Great topic plus great casting equals great performance. Thanks for the "ride" Mr. Dowdell!

One of A Kind............Extraordinary

[J.P.-9 · 10/10 · 9 May 2000]

It's been five days since I had the privilege to view the movie "Train Ride" and its life-changing plot continues to dominate my thoughts. "Train Ride" is a brilliantly directed; thought provoking hot new movie that everyone must see. The multi-talented cast displays realistic character roles and delivers bold dialogue forcing viewers to remain on the edge of their seats desiring to know what happens next. Kudos to the young writer/director Mr. Rel Dowdell for his wisdom and hard work illustrated throughout this film. You cannot claim to know it all or have seen it all until you have seen....."Train Ride"!

train ride is a fantastic American film that should be seen by all

[jack-lavell · 10/10 · 31 May 2008]

I recently have stumbled upon a few reviews for this movie and decided to check it out at my local block buster. I often stay away from movies that I have not seen in movie theaters but I am glad I changed my mindset for this one. Train ride is one of the best movies I have ever seen. The dialog was brilliant. And that can only be attributed to brilliant writing and the acting to pull it off. Without great writing most movies fail. I look at a movie like American gangster and I was disappointed by the way the movie failed to deliver because of the bland dialog. Even with great actors, American gangster had no substance because there was no great dialog to catch the audiences attention. The movie just used violence to hide its poor writing. American gangster was a great concept that was wasted due to bad writing. However, Train Ride was written so well that every piece of dialog captured my full attention. Scenes like the one where the main villain Will talks about how he found out about the date rape drug kept me glued to the screen. Writing can make an average actor seem great and make a great actor seem legendary, and this is exactly how the writing by director/writer Rel Dowdell helps Wood Harris achieve another level in Train Ride. I know this director will be a Superstar very soon and cannot wait to see his future works. If I talked any more about the movie I would be forced into writing a spoiler so I just urge anyone who has not seen this movie to see it as if their very life depended on it. Especially those who are currently in college. I am currently in college right now and I cannot tell you how much the date rape drug has effected my campus. This is a movie that is as brilliant and gritty as it is educational. I can truly say I was shocked at how good it was.

Train Ride is a must see movie.

[mthompson-12 · 10/10 · 7 March 2005]

What a ride! Rel Dowdell did a WONDERFUL JOB with this movie. The characters were well developed, the plot is highly evolved and the story unfolds in excellent fashion. I was totally drawn in from the very beginning. My attention remained undivided for the duration of the film. Train Ride is a must see movie. In fact, this is the sort of movie that I must have in my personal film library. And, I am confident that other viewers will agree that this is among the best movies of the year; independent or otherwise. I expect to watch it again and again. Train Ride left me wanting more. Rel Dowdell is an extremely talented writer/director/actor. I can't wait for his next film. From now one, when a see a project with Rel Dowdell's name attached to it, I won't hesitate to fork over the admissions charge. Absolutely, a must see movie.