Why This Classic Crime Movie Still Holds Up Today

Crime movies have always been a hit with viewers. In early 2026, several new ones came out, like "Dead Man's Wire" and "The Rip. " These films often follow a familiar pattern, which is part of their appeal. But where did this trend start? It's hard to pinpoint exactly, but one film stands out as a top example: "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" from 1974. This movie is based on a novel by John Godey. It tells the story of four masked criminals who hijack a subway train in New York City. They demand a huge ransom and threaten to kill a hostage every minute the money is late. The city's transit police lieutenant, Zachary Garber, played by Walter Matthau, has to outsmart these well-prepared criminals.What makes this film special is its director, Joseph Sargent. He handles the many locations and plot twists skillfully. Matthau's performance adds a unique touch, blending humor with the gritty reality of a New York cop. The criminals, played by Robert Shaw, Martin Balsam, Héctor Elizondo, and Earl Hindman, also bring depth to their roles. Each has a color-coded name, like Mr. Blue and Mr. Green, which became a popular trope in later films. "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" has inspired many other movies. Quentin Tarantino's "Reservoir Dogs" and John McTiernan's "Die Hard" series both show its influence. Even a remake in 2009, starring Denzel Washington and John Travolta, couldn't match the original's charm. If you haven't seen it, now's your chance. It's available on Prime Video and is worth every minute.