“Snowpiercer” (2013), directed by Bong Joon-ho, is a dystopian sci-fi film set on a perpetually moving train carrying the remnants of humanity after a climate catastrophe. The train is divided by class, with the wealthy elite living in luxury at the front and the impoverished masses enduring squalor in the tail section. Chris Evans stars as Curtis, a reluctant leader who spearheads a rebellion to reach the train’s engine and confront its creator, Wilford. As Curtis and his group fight through each carriage, they encounter escalating challenges and uncover horrifying truths, including revelations about the train’s self-sustaining system. Curtis learns that Wilford orchestrated the rebellion to maintain balance and control, leading to a climactic confrontation. The film ends with the train derailing after an explosion, leaving only two survivors, a young boy and girl, who step into a snow-covered wilderness, suggesting hope for humanity’s future. “Snowpiercer” explores themes of class struggle, survival, and moral compromise, with intense action sequences and thought-provoking social commentary.

“I know what people taste like. I know that babies taste best.”

This shocking revelation from Curtis highlights the extreme measures people resort to for survival. It speaks to the darkness within humanity and the lengths one might go to in desperate times, urging a reflection on the moral boundaries tested by scarcity and crisis.

“We go forward.”

A simple yet powerful mantra representing resilience and determination. It embodies the human spirit’s relentless pursuit of progress, even amidst overwhelming adversity, encouraging a mindset of perseverance and hope.

“You’re the first human being to have walked on this planet in eighteen years.”

This line underscores the theme of rebirth and new beginnings. It reflects the idea of rediscovery and the possibility of starting anew, suggesting that even after devastation, life finds a way to continue.

“Know your place. Keep your place. Be a shoe.”

Here, the film critiques social stratification and conformity. It serves as a metaphor for societal roles and the pressures to accept one’s designated position, questioning the justice and equality within hierarchical structures.

“We take the engine, and we control the world.”

This quote symbolizes the quest for power and control. It reflects the belief that seizing the means of production or control can lead to freedom and change, a commentary on revolutionary zeal and the desire to overthrow oppressive systems.

“I belong to the front. You belong to the tail.”

A stark reminder of the rigid class divisions aboard the train, which mirrors real-world social inequities. It highlights the struggle for equality and the fight against systemic oppression.

“Curtis, everyone has their preordained position.”

This line questions the notion of destiny and predetermined roles in society. It challenges the audience to think about free will versus societal expectations, urging a reevaluation of one’s purpose and potential for change.

“This is your destiny.”

A statement that delves into the philosophical debate about fate versus free choice. It encourages introspection about whether we shape our own paths or follow a predetermined course.

“The train is the world. We the humanity.”

A metaphor for society and the interconnectedness of all people. It emphasizes the idea that humanity is a microcosm of the world, bound together by shared experiences and destinies, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation.

“We’ve been taught that place and position is the same thing.”

This quote critiques societal indoctrination and the belief that one’s status defines their identity. It suggests the need for critical thinking and the breaking of mental chains that bind individuals to their social roles.

“Order is the barrier that holds back the flood of death.”

A reflection on the necessity of order and structure in maintaining civilization. It hints at the balance between chaos and control, and how societal rules can prevent total anarchy, yet also be suffocating.

“We all freeze and die if the engine stops.”

A stark reminder of dependence on technology and infrastructure. It poses an existential question about human reliance on systems and the potential consequences of their failure.

“This is your world. The train saved humanity.”

Explores themes of salvation and isolation. The train as a microcosm of the world represents both a refuge and a prison, prompting thoughts on what it means to survive versus truly live.

“I am not a leader.”

Curtis’s reluctance to lead reflects the burden and responsibility of leadership. It explores themes of self-doubt and the struggle between personal desires and the greater good.

“I want to open the gates, but I can’t.”

This line symbolizes the internal conflict between desire and duty. It speaks to the constraints of circumstance and the wish to break free from societal or personal limitations.

“Seventeen years I’ve hated Wilford.”

A testament to the driving force of hatred and the toll it takes on individuals. It raises questions about the sustainability of such emotions as motivators and the potential for forgiveness and change.

“You know what I hate about myself? I know what people taste like.”

Curtis’s self-loathing reflects deep-seated guilt and trauma. It highlights the psychological scars left by past actions and the challenge of coming to terms with one’s darker instincts.

“You’ve seen what people do without leadership.”

Explores the chaos that can ensue in the absence of guidance, underscoring the need for direction and purpose. It poses the question of what defines effective leadership and the impact of its lack.

“My friend died to save you, all of you!”

This line highlights sacrifice and selflessness. It emphasizes the theme of collective survival over individual gain and questions what one is willing to give up for the greater good.

“We take the engine and we control the world.”

A repeat of an earlier sentiment, reinforcing the desire for change and the belief that power lies in controlling the means of production. It invites reflection on revolutionary action versus the status quo.

Interesting Facts about Snowpiercer (2013) – Chris Evans

Director Bong Joon-ho’s English Language Debut

“Snowpiercer” marks the first English-language film directed by the acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho.

Chris Evans’ Hidden Role

Chris Evans’ character, Curtis, is based on the French graphic novel “Le Transperceneige,” which was relatively unknown outside of France before the movie adaptation.

Real Train Set

To create the claustrophobic environment of the train, the production team built a full-scale train set on a giant gimbal to simulate the movement of a real train.

Innovative Filming Techniques

The film’s cinematographer, Hong Kyung-pyo, used innovative techniques to capture the confined spaces, including using anamorphic lenses for a wide-angle effect in narrow train cars.

Ed Harris’ Surprise Role

Ed Harris, who plays the enigmatic Wilford, was a surprise addition to the cast and his involvement was kept secret until the film’s release.

Realistic Fight Scenes

Many of the fight scenes, particularly the one in the dark with night vision goggles, were meticulously choreographed to ensure a brutal and realistic portrayal.

Environmental Themes

The movie is a commentary on climate change, social class disparity, and survival, reflecting Bong Joon-ho’s interest in depicting societal issues through science fiction.

Unconventional Music Score

Marco Beltrami composed the film’s score, which uniquely blends electronic and orchestral elements to enhance the film’s dystopian atmosphere.

Actress Octavia Spencer’s Improvisation

Octavia Spencer, who plays Tanya, was encouraged by Bong Joon-ho to improvise her lines to bring authenticity to her character’s desperation and determination.

International Collaboration

The film is a result of an international collaboration, with a South Korean director, a French source material, and a predominantly American and international cast.

Production Challenges

The production faced challenges due to the language barrier and cultural differences, but the director used it as an opportunity to create a unique blend of storytelling styles.

Critically Acclaimed

“Snowpiercer” received critical acclaim for its unique storytelling, visuals, and thought-provoking themes, earning it a cult following and several awards.