Night Train is a quick actioner

Danielle C. Ryan is back in action with Night Train from Saban Films. Shane Stanley directs the film, while his frequent collaborator CJ Walley pens the script. La La Land teamster and single mother Holly McCord (Danielle C. Ryan) is driven to extreme measures to save her son’s life. While Holly moonlights as a street racer, more is needed.

Holly then decides to begin hauling black-market drugs in her souped-up truck. She arranges for her shipment to be delivered through a drug mule Renzo Romeo (Paul Haapaniemi), who picks up cocaine from Mexican gangsters and the cheaper pharmaceutical drugs that are outlawed in the US. It should be no surprise that the Feds are on the trail of Holly, including a cynical female agent, Jaylynne Jackson (Diora Baird).

Holly is taking a significant risk as the drugs she is smuggling are illegal, and if caught, she could face serious consequences. She is also putting Renzo at risk, as he is the one who delivers drugs. He is in even greater danger of punishment if he is caught. With two bounties on her head and her son’s life on the line, Holly climbs behind the “Night Train” wheel, ready to outrun, outgun, and outlast them all.

One of the things viewers should be aware of heading into the film is that there is only a little action. Instead, the film attempts to tell a story. The supporting cast is only here out of contractual obligations, but Danielle C. Ryan shows promise. The film focuses more on the plot and characters than the action. Danielle C. Ryan’s performance is the film’s highlight and is the main reason to watch it. Her character arc and development are the movie’s most interesting part, and her performance elevates the film. Diora Baird stepped away from the Cobra Kai franchise, and I wish she had more to do.

This film is worth a look if you are looking for a one-time, mindless film with a female lead that
keeps you interested throughout the whole thing. Baird plays a strong and determined woman who overcomes personal tragedy and learns to stand up for herself. Her character arc is believable and easily connects with her journey and her struggles. Her performance is truly captivating, and she brings a lot of depth and emotion to the film despite the budget.

Final Grade: C

Night Train is coming to select theaters on January 13 and On Demand and Digital on January 17 from Saban Films.