The Last Journey

Synopsis

A train driver on his last journey before retirement thinks his fireman is having an affair with his wife. The driver intends to kill himself and his passengers by crashing the train. The train is filled with colourful characters, including a psychoanalyst who persuades the driver not to do it.

Cast

Godfrey Tearle as Sir Wilfred Rhodes

Hugh Williams as Gerald Winter

Judy Gunn as Diana Gregory

Mickey Brantford as Tom

Julien Mitchell as Bob Holt

Olga Lindo as Mrs. Holt

Michael Hogan as Charlie

Frank Pettingell as Goddard

Eliot Makeham as Pip

Eve Gray as Daisy

Production

The film was made at Twickenham Studios as a quota quickie.

Critical reception

Film Weekly wrote: "Competently narrated and capably acted, this is an unassuming little picture that is quite sound entertainment of its type. ... Bernard Vorhaus has kept a firm control over the rather complicated threads of the story; and, as usual, his work is marked by intelligent touches that suggest he will one day make an outstanding film."

The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "Suspense is well-maintained and the climax is thrilling. The acting generally is on a high level though opportunities in this type of plot are obviously limited. The direction is skilful and imaginative and the camera work is good."

Variety wrote: "Godfrey Tearle makes a sincere, dignified figure as the psychoanalyst, with the rest of the characters well etched. Julien Mitchell hardly conveys the intense devotion to his wife which would warrant the jeopardizing of the lives of a number of people, but his moments of frenzy are real enough."

The New York Times wrote, "there are some engaging directorial touches, and there is some excellent photography."

Britmovie noted a "gripping low-budget b-movie portmanteau thriller featuring fast-cutting from director Bernard Vorhaus and impressive location shooting on the Great Western Railway."