Bullet Train Explosion (2025) is the latest Japanese action thriller that premiered in April 2025 on Netflix, and it’s a remake of the 1975 classic The Bullet Train. This film revisits the high-stakes premise of a Japanese bullet train rigged with bombs, ramping up the thrills with modern action and storytelling.
Is Bullet Train Explosion a Good Movie?
Overall, critics and audiences have found “Bullet Train Explosion” to be an enjoyable movie. It offers clever scenes, engaging twists, and solid performances from the lead actors. Although some viewers found the pacing a bit slow in places, the film’s intense action sequences and suspenseful moments make it a worthy watch for fans of the disaster-thriller genre. The movie also brings fresh ideas to the train disaster plot, maintaining engagement throughout its runtime.
Is Bullet Train Explosion a Hit or Flop?
Financially, the movie performed well, especially considering its release both in Japan and globally via Netflix. While exact box office details may be limited due to the streaming platform release, the film’s reception, boosted by Netflix’s wide distribution, classifies it as a successful addition to contemporary Japanese thrillers. It has garnered strong attention and viewership, making it more of a hit than a flop.
Why Did the Girl Plant the Bomb?
A central mystery in the film revolves around the teenage girl who planted the bombs on the train. It’s revealed that her motivations stem from deep personal trauma, including abuse and emotional neglect by her father, who was also involved in covering up previous bombing incidents. Her actions are driven by revenge and frustration towards her family and society. The character’s complex backstory adds a layer of psychological depth to the thriller, turning it into a morality play on honour, shame, and generational trauma.
Is Bullet Train Explosion a Remake?
Yes, “Bullet Train Explosion” is a remake and a sequel to the 1975 Japanese film The Bullet Train (“Shinkansen Daibakuha”). It pays homage to the original while updating the story and visuals for a modern audience. The 2025 version incorporates new plot elements, character arcs, and more explosive action sequences.
Director Shinji Higuchi brought authentic Shinkansen trains to the production, giving the film a real sense of place and intensity, differentiating it from both the original and Western adaptations inspired by it.
Whether you’re a fan of classic thrillers or modern disaster films, Bullet Train Explosion (2025) offers a thrilling ride through suspense, danger, and emotional complexity on Japan’s fastest train.
Where to watch Bullet Train Explosion (Shinkansen daibakuha)
