Question 1

What real-life tragedy occurred after the film's release that led to controversy?

Accepted Answer

Two days after the film opened, two men set a subway ticket booth alight in Brooklyn, killing the attendant. Subway workers called for a boycott and poster removal, with Senator Bob Dole supporting them, but Columbia Pictures refused. Actor Chris Cooper later regretted his role.

Question 2

Why was a massive set built instead of filming in the actual New York City subway?

Accepted Answer

The original plan to film in the real New York City subway proved logistically problematic, so they constructed one of the longest film sets ever—over 3,000 feet long, 20 feet high, and four tracks wide, roughly the size of two Empire State Buildings side by side.

Question 3

How were real subway cars adapted for use on the film set?

Accepted Answer

Twelve New York City subway cars were shipped to Los Angeles and converted to run on propane so the set rails wouldn't need electrification, eliminating a potential health hazard for the crew.

Question 4

What happened to the prop train after filming was completed?

Accepted Answer

The prop money train was an actual retired New York City subway train destined for scrap. After filming, it was donated to the New York City Transit Authority and now resides in the Coney Island Rapid Transit Yard.

Question 5

What was unique about the subway set's design compared to real New York City subways?

Accepted Answer

The 4,000-foot set included three stations built as local stops with platforms on the outside tracks, I-beams spaced five feet apart like NYC, but the ceiling was much higher than any actual New York City subway line.

Money Train

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