BFI

This wonderful early film contains all the elements of a classic 'phantom ride'. Filmed from the front of a speeding train in a single continuous take, it even includes a view through a tunnel. We can still imagine the thrill audiences would have felt as the train speeds into the tunnel when watching the film today. The camera is suddenly engulfed by darkness, almost as if the film has suddenly come to an end. Viewers would have enjoyed the anticipation of bursting into daylight through the small white circle that grows larger and larger.

Since many phantom rides were shot in nondescript locations rather than famous or exotic places, they were clearly designed purely for the exciting, visceral sensations they offered viewers. This kind of film would have been enough to capture an audience's attention because it provided a unique experience that could only be witnessed at a moving picture show.

Christian Hayes

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