42 reviews
Extraordinary Film!!!
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
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.
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.
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.
- ataubman-1
- Mar 2, 2005
- Permalink
Excellent
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. [email protected]
Da Jump Off!
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!
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"
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!
- trulyvanes
- Dec 13, 2009
- Permalink
Thought provoking and exciting.
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!
Extraordinary Film-making
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.
One of A Kind............Extraordinary
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
- May 30, 2008
- Permalink
Train Ride is a must see movie.
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.
- mthompson-12
- Mar 6, 2005
- Permalink
The type of Black film that educates as well as entertains
Train Ride is a film of intelligence,wit,social message,drama and humor all thrown together in a very coherent way to make for a viewing experience one will not soon forget.
The film is set at a historically Black College but its theme of date rape,misguided values and peer pressure is a universal one.I have seen or heard of many of the same things that director Dowdell portrays in Train Ride.Many black AND white men still laugh about"pulling a train on the bitch"not understanding the fact that this"bitch"is someone's daughter,sister or friend.Yet the film does not beat you over the head with the message.It shows instead of tells the story of a college Freshman played by MC Lyte who gets caught up in a situation that,while having traumatic consequences,seems very innocent to her at first.
The dialogue is very real and uncontrived.Ron,Ellis and Will seem to not even be following a script,but just flowing naturally.Katrina,played by MC Lyte,is a "round the way sister"we all know if we have had any exposure to the hood.The tragedy of the sequence of events lies in the fact that had "the brothers"just acted cool and treated the females with respect,their goals of romance and/or sexual connection most likely could have been realized sooner or later.
The ending was very creative and unexpected.Did NOT expect it to end like it did.Give this young Black director Mr. Dowdell much props for elevating the craft of intelligent African-American film.And hook up a copy of Train Ride on Amazon.This will be a wonderful addition to your DVD library!
The film is set at a historically Black College but its theme of date rape,misguided values and peer pressure is a universal one.I have seen or heard of many of the same things that director Dowdell portrays in Train Ride.Many black AND white men still laugh about"pulling a train on the bitch"not understanding the fact that this"bitch"is someone's daughter,sister or friend.Yet the film does not beat you over the head with the message.It shows instead of tells the story of a college Freshman played by MC Lyte who gets caught up in a situation that,while having traumatic consequences,seems very innocent to her at first.
The dialogue is very real and uncontrived.Ron,Ellis and Will seem to not even be following a script,but just flowing naturally.Katrina,played by MC Lyte,is a "round the way sister"we all know if we have had any exposure to the hood.The tragedy of the sequence of events lies in the fact that had "the brothers"just acted cool and treated the females with respect,their goals of romance and/or sexual connection most likely could have been realized sooner or later.
The ending was very creative and unexpected.Did NOT expect it to end like it did.Give this young Black director Mr. Dowdell much props for elevating the craft of intelligent African-American film.And hook up a copy of Train Ride on Amazon.This will be a wonderful addition to your DVD library!
- Riverman94610
- Jul 2, 2005
- Permalink
Must see for all college bound student
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.
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.
- smoothchocolatedrop
- Feb 1, 2006
- Permalink
Worth the RIDE
Train Ride is an entertainingly savvy, powerful and socially conscious movie all wrapped into one. It also comes at a time when many African American movies are very monolithic in their story line. Thus, it's a refreshing change.
I was fortunate enough to see an advance screening of the film several years ago and when it was released this past year and it still resonates in me.
This movie is directed by Rel Dowdell, a great young up and coming director who I hear worked tirelessly to get his directorial debut to the big screen. Definitely worth it. Train Ride stars the late great Esther Rolle, and cast some of today's hot new talent: Wood Harris, HBO's Bad Boy, Barksdale from "The Wire," Russell Hornsby, ESPN's "Playmaker" Kadee Strickland "Fever Pitch". The movie deals with a very unpopular subject and is delivered in an extremely provocative, yet entertaining manner
This is a must see, especially by all young adults beginning their transition into the real world. Can't wait for Dowdell's next project!
Worth the RIDE!!
I was fortunate enough to see an advance screening of the film several years ago and when it was released this past year and it still resonates in me.
This movie is directed by Rel Dowdell, a great young up and coming director who I hear worked tirelessly to get his directorial debut to the big screen. Definitely worth it. Train Ride stars the late great Esther Rolle, and cast some of today's hot new talent: Wood Harris, HBO's Bad Boy, Barksdale from "The Wire," Russell Hornsby, ESPN's "Playmaker" Kadee Strickland "Fever Pitch". The movie deals with a very unpopular subject and is delivered in an extremely provocative, yet entertaining manner
This is a must see, especially by all young adults beginning their transition into the real world. Can't wait for Dowdell's next project!
Worth the RIDE!!
Extremly Moving!
This movie begins with a situation that grabs your attention. After that the viewer is curious to see what events lead to such a scene. Unfortunately the plot is all too familiar to those who attended colleges and universities; however, it is one that needs to be addressed.
MC Lyte's performance in this movie was deeply heart wrenching. I was able to feel her character's pain. One scene in particular left me fighting back tears and wanting to help her overcome her situation. The performance Wood Harris gave reminded me of people I encountered in my college days. (Very frightening in many respects.) His character was so believable.
Even though the subject matter is serious there are humorous portions to lighten the viewer's anxious feelings.
Train Ride is a terrific movie that will leave you discussing the topic during the drive home.
MC Lyte's performance in this movie was deeply heart wrenching. I was able to feel her character's pain. One scene in particular left me fighting back tears and wanting to help her overcome her situation. The performance Wood Harris gave reminded me of people I encountered in my college days. (Very frightening in many respects.) His character was so believable.
Even though the subject matter is serious there are humorous portions to lighten the viewer's anxious feelings.
Train Ride is a terrific movie that will leave you discussing the topic during the drive home.
Outstanding "Must See" Movie
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!
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!
Awesome! Awesome! Awesome!!!!
Having seen this film it, is inevitable that this director/writer will be a force to be reckoned with in the film and entertainment industry. I challenge anyone who has seen this extrordinary work not to come away from feeling that we are in the presence of an awesome, awesome talent!! I for one have a hard time fathoming that this started as a student film for Mr. Dowdell's thesis. Some of the films that are in major release do not capture such compelling performances, plot and story as well as this director and writer has, and he didn't have the budget that that they work from. Mr Dowdell can be assured that he has created a dedicated fan in myself and I believe in others who have and who will see this film. I wait in anticipation for his next project.
- jkobie6445
- Feb 28, 2005
- Permalink
Don't Miss this Train!!!
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!
Unbelievable
I sat for 10 minutes before I could even begin to put this work of art into words. Rell Dowdell has done an excellent job of taking a very serious issue (which few have done) and placing it on the big screen with a true impact. Wood Harris and M.c. Lyte's performances were stunning. The characters depicted in this movie were beyond realistic they are real! It is not often that you see a movie that truly moves you to a feeling of suspense, anger, and humor while not losing sight of the true topic. This movie is a must see. I have seen the future and it is Rell Dowdell's "Train Ride".
Every person in high school should see this movie.
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.
- pamelalyyn
- Dec 26, 2005
- Permalink
Very good movie by award winning Screenwriter/Director Rel Dowdell
This movie is quite interesting. The interaction between the characters (particularly Wood Harris and the other guys) and the underlying message is very strong. While the movie should make men and women looks introspectively at a very serious subject there are plenty of light-hearted moments that make this movie somewhat fun. The script is particularly cunning in that the characters reactions to certain events are not predictable and that was refreshing. The pace of the script as depicted by the movie was appropriately fluctuant and that adds to the quality of film. Part of this movie was made prior to the growth and expanded exposure of several of the actors/actresses most notably Wood Harris, and of course the passing of one of the queens of acting Ester Rolle. The presence of the late Ms. Rolle and the selection of future stars in this independent film speaks loudly on the talent of the writer/director.
- quentinscott1
- Feb 28, 2005
- Permalink
tense, taut, smart drama/thriller
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.
- smartgetdown
- Dec 28, 2005
- Permalink
Great Movie, good premise
Awesome
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.
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.
- tracy-betterson
- Mar 3, 2005
- Permalink