Posted: 01/16/2004
 

587: The Great Train Robbery

(2003)

by Clint Fletcher



Winner: Palm Springs Film Festival, Family Favorite Film Festival, Dove Foundation Seal of Approval

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The film opens on the day of the Big Race. Alex (Nick Abeel) prepares to go up against the best of the best in the form of the ever-so-popular sport: soapbox racing. But this time is different because Alex is armed with a new secret weapon for his box that can be released upon the world at the time of his choosing.

As he falls behind, Alex executes some jolting acceleration and heads a little too fast around Dead Man’s Curve. He goes barreling through a ditch and ends up in what appears to be a railroad scrap yard. He then comes across something that is fascinating enough to serve as the main title: a steam locomotive known as… you guessed it… the 587. Alex then discovers that this particular train is in route to be destroyed. With the help of his sister, Molly (Ariadne Baker-Dunn), and Russell (Ran Burns), Alex concocts a scheme with his friends to stop the train from heading toward trash bin heaven. And let’s not forget the rest of the neighborhood gang and the beloved dog Sparky! Does the young pack succeed in their quest to salvage the train? Check it out and see!

For the record I am telling you to see this film. While it is obvious that it is made for kids, there are still some elements of film making that is sure to please some adults too. 587 is filled with solid acting all-around, with a special note to Ariadne Baker-Dunn. This little cutie is quite the scene-stealer in her own right (whether she’s meant to be or not) as Alex’s trusty sidekick Molly. If you have kids, you are a kid, or you just want to find your inner kid again, then 587: The Great Train Robbery is a solid bet for you.

MTI Home Video, the leading independent home entertainment studio, will release the heartwarming family film, 587: The Great Train Robbery, on VHS and DVD January 27, 2004.

Clint Fletcher is a Chicago filmmaker and writer.



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