In the realm of film criticism, discussions often revolve around technical aspects, comparisons to past works, and the use of modern technologies like generative AI. However, the recent release Stop! That! Train! directed by Adam Shankman, offers a unique perspective that transcends these typical talking points. The film’s alternate universe, where the United States boasts a robust domestic high-speed rail network, is what truly captivates.
The story follows the adventures of Tess (Ginger Minj) and DeeDee (Jujubee), attendants for a budget train line known as Stank Rail. The film’s premise is set in motion when the duo fabricates uniforms to sneak aboard the luxurious Glamazonian Express, a high-speed train that travels at Shinkansen-level velocity. This fantastical setting serves as a backdrop for a comedy that mirrors the zany tone of classics like Airplane!.
The Allure of High-Speed Rail in Stop! That! Train!
The Glamazonian Express is depicted as an oasis of comfort, complete with designer furnishings and wall sconces, a stark contrast to the current state of Amtrak. The film’s portrayal of a high-speed train command center, monitored by Rachel Bloom’s character Donna Dusk, adds a layer of futuristic intrigue. This command center, with its advanced screens and gadgets, is a far cry from the drab-looking conference rooms of real-world rail administration.
The film’s alternate universe extends beyond the rails. President Judy Gagwell (RuPaul) has a connection to the Train Force, a fictional military branch. The majority of the population does drag, and notable figures like Matt Rogers and Latrice Royale hold prominent public positions. This world is a stark contrast to our own, where high-speed rail is a distant dream.
The Reality of High-Speed Rail in the U.S.
The U.S. lags behind other countries in high-speed rail infrastructure. Amtrak’s Acela line in the Northeast Corridor only hits top speeds of 150-160 miles per hour, a far cry from the 200 mph speeds achieved in France and Japan. The film’s portrayal of a high-speed rail network that allows for a single-day trip from Los Angeles to Celebration, Florida, is a fantasy that highlights the current shortcomings of our rail system.
The Brightline in Florida, which connects Orlando with West Palm Beach, is a step in the right direction but struggles to stay solvent. Reports of soaring Amtrak demand amid rising gas prices indicate a growing interest in rail travel. However, the current administration’s calls for cuts to the system threaten to hinder progress.
The Cultural Impact of High-Speed Rail
Stop! That! Train! understands the necessity of modernizing the rail infrastructure in the United States. The film’s portrayal of a world where train travel is central to our culture serves as a commentary on the current state of affairs. The majority of the population doing drag and notable figures holding prominent positions add a layer of cultural commentary that resonates with the film’s queer audience.
The film’s alternate universe is a fantasy that highlights the potential of high-speed rail. It’s a world where train travel is not only efficient but also a cultural experience. The film’s portrayal of the Glamazonian Express as an oasis of comfort is a stark contrast to the current state of Amtrak, where the nicest you can get is a white tablecloth with flowers on certain long-distance routes.
That! Train! is more than just a queer comedy. It’s a commentary on the current state of high-speed rail in the United States and a call to action for modernization. The film’s alternate universe serves as a reminder of what could be if we invest in our rail infrastructure and make train travel central to our culture once more.
