TRAIN RIDE is a riveting thriller that takes
place on an all-Black
college campus. Will (Wood Harris of HBOs The Wire. Paid In Full
and Remember The Titans) is an upperclassman who, after
a night of partying,
convinces freshman Katrina (MC Lyte) to stick around and have a
drink. What Katrina doesn't realize is the drink has been spiked
with Rohypnol, a drug that renders her unconscious. Soon, Will
invites his two best friends to unknowingly take part in a gang
rape--a "Train Ride," that he captures on videotape. These
actions, combined with the guilt, shame, anger and fear that follow
take everyone involved on a different journey destined to spiral
out of control...
Train Ride is based on Boston University and Fisk graduate
Rel J.
Dowdell's award winning short film of the same name. After the
success of the short, Rel was courted by a number of Hollywood
players to adapt his movie into a feature-length film. It wasn't
long before Rel was back in his hometown of Philadelphia yelling
"Action" on his first feature film. Complications arose and
finishing funds shriveled when bosses at two major studios
committed to the project, were replaced. Train Ride soon gained
legendary status within Black independent film circles. Internet
buzz grew. Those that were fortunate enough to see early rough
cuts gave it a 10 out of 10 rating on the Internet
Movie Database.
Curiosity piqued among insiders for this small little movie out of
Philly that also boasted the late Esther Rolle's final film
appearance.
Watching Train Ride in 2005 reveals a still topical well crafted
and tastefully treated examination of its topic. Loaded with twists
and turns, it involves audiences and is guaranteed to spur
discussion, especially among those who share the Black college
experience.
Still in his early 30s, Mr. Dowdell has stayed busy writing
screenplays and teaching others the craft as a professor at Boston
University while maintaining residence in Philadelphia. He never
lost faith that his debut feature would see the light of day and
that more doors would open for him. Late last year, Philly's own RUFFNATION
FILMS (Snipes) became an angel of sorts, when it acquired all
rights to Train Ride. They improved the image added a new
soundtrack and director's commentary. An Official Selection of the 2005
Pan African Film Festival, Train Ride is now slated for DVD
release on March 15. REELBLACK PRESENTS will host the Official
World Theatrical Premiere in Philadelphia on February
25.
