Have you ever sat on a train, daydreaming about the lives of strangers outside the window? That’s exactly how The Girl on the Train (2016), directed by Tate Taylor, begins — except those daydreams quickly spiral into obsession, betrayal, and murder.
Based on Paula Hawkins’ bestselling novel, this psychological thriller stars Emily Blunt as Rachel Watson, a woman whose seemingly innocent observations lead her into a maze of lies and danger. With its gripping narrative, unexpected twists, and stellar performances, The Girl on the Train is a perfect movie for Friday night. It keeps you guessing until the very end, making every moment feel like a new clue in an unsolvable puzzle. If you’re in the mood for a dark, suspenseful ride, buckle up — because this train doesn’t stop for anyone.
Plot
Rachel Watson’s life is in shambles. Haunted by her recent divorce, she numbs her pain with alcohol and takes solace in the routine of her daily train rides past her former home. From the window, she fixates on a seemingly perfect couple, Scott and Megan Hipwell, whom she idealises as the epitome of happiness. But when Rachel witnesses Megan in a compromising situation with another man, her perception of their “perfect” life is shattered. Shortly after, Megan goes missing, and Rachel finds herself drawn into the investigation. Her memories of the night Megan disappeared are fragmented — blurred by alcohol and trauma — leaving her uncertain of her own actions.
As Rachel works to uncover the truth, she confronts dark secrets about herself, her ex-husband Tom, and those she once admired. What begins as an innocent fascination transforms into a journey filled with danger, deceit, and shocking revelations that will leave you questioning everyone.
Cast
Emily Blunt’s portrayal of Rachel Watson is nothing short of remarkable. She captures Rachel’s vulnerability, desperation, and determination with raw authenticity, making her a character you root for—even as you doubt her every move. Rebecca Ferguson plays Anna Watson, Rachel’s ex-husband’s new wife, whose seemingly serene life hides its own cracks. Haley Bennett brings complexity to Megan Hipwell, a woman whose secrets hold the key to the story’s central mystery, while Justin Theroux delivers a chilling performance as Tom Watson, Rachel’s manipulative ex. Luke Evans plays Scott Hipwell, Megan’s husband, with an intensity that adds to the tension.
Supporting performances by Allison Janney as Detective Riley and Édgar Ramírez as Megan’s therapist round out the film’s cast adding layers to the tangled web of lies and motives.
Reviews
The Girl on the Train received mixed reviews from critics, but Emily Blunt’s performance was universally praised. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 49% audience rating, with critics echoing this sentiment with 44% rating noting its inability to fully capture the depth of the novel.
IMDb users were a bit kinder rating the film at 6.5/10, appreciating its suspenseful twists but pointing out pacing issues. TIME Magazine called Blunt’s portrayal of Rachel “unflinching,” while others, like The Guardian, criticised the adaptation for prioritising drama over psychological depth. Despite these mixed reviews, audiences widely agree that the film’s central mystery and Blunt’s performance make it a worthwhile watch.
How To Watch The Girl on the Train
Other Friday Night Movie Recommendations
If The Girl on the Train has you hooked, dive into Gone Girl (2014) for another twist-filled exploration of trust and betrayal. Check out The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011) for its gripping mystery and compelling lead, or Prisoners (2013), a dark thriller about the lengths we go to uncover the truth. These films guarantee a thrilling, suspense-filled Friday night.