The Great Train Robbery Poster

The Great Train Robbery 1903

★ 7.0690 votes12 min📅 1903-12-07

"It electrified dad! It terrified mother! It will amuse you!"

Considered a groundbreaking achievement in film history, The Great Train Robbery (1903) by Edwin S. Porter is a thrilling tale of crime and adventure that captivated audiences in its time.

Director: Edwin S. Porter

Cast

Gilbert M. Anderson
Gilbert M. Anderson
Bandit / Shot Passenger / Tenderfoot Dancer (uncredited)
John Manus Dougherty Sr.
Bandit (uncredited)
Frank Hanaway
Bandit (uncredited)
Adam Charles Hayman
Bandit (uncredited)
Robert Milasch
Robert Milasch
Trainman / Bandit (uncredited)
Marie Murray
Dance-Hall Dancer (uncredited)
Mary Snow
Little Girl (uncredited)
A.C. Abadie
Sheriff (uncredited)
Walter Cameron
Sheriff (uncredited)
Donald Gallaher
Little Boy (uncredited)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Great Train Robbery (1903) about?

This 12-minute Western thriller tells the story of a daring train robbery and the ensuing high-stakes chase, as a group of ruthless bandits leave a trail of chaos in their wake.

Who directed The Great Train Robbery?

The Great Train Robbery (1903) was directed by the pioneering filmmaker Edwin S. Porter, a master of early cinematic storytelling.

Who stars in The Great Train Robbery?

The film features a talented cast, including Gilbert M. Anderson, John Manus Dougherty Sr., and Frank Hanaway.

Is The Great Train Robbery (1903) worth watching?

While The Great Train Robbery (1903) may not have received an IMDb rating, its influence on the Western action film genre and its captivating storytelling make it a must-watch for film enthusiasts.

How long is The Great Train Robbery?

The Great Train Robbery (1903) has a runtime of 12 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About The Great Train Robbery (1903) — Pioneering the Western Action Film Genre

Considered a groundbreaking achievement in film history, The Great Train Robbery (1903) by Edwin S. Porter is a thrilling tale of crime and adventure that captivated audiences in its time. The film's raw energy and kinetic pace, typical of early Westerns, paint a vivid picture of a daring heist. A group of ruthless bandits, armed with little more than their wits and a train to rob, leave a trail of chaos in their wake. As a posse hot on their heels, the stakes are raised, and the tension builds towards a heart-pounding conclusion. This pioneering work of cinematic art not only electrified its contemporaries but also paved the way for generations of filmmakers to come. With its short yet explosive runtime, The Great Train Robbery (1903) remains an essential watch for anyone interested in the evolution of cinema.

The film boasts an impressive cast, including the likes of Gilbert M. Anderson, John Manus Dougherty Sr., and Frank Hanaway, who bring to life the complex characters and high-stakes action. This early Western's influence can still be seen in modern-day action films, with its innovative use of camera angles and editing techniques. The Great Train Robbery (1903) is an immersive and edge-of-your-seat experience that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

As a testament to its enduring appeal, The Great Train Robbery (1903) has become a beloved classic, celebrated for its pioneering spirit and captivating storytelling.