A unique film festival dedicated to the allure of train travel is set to captivate audiences across Maine. Full Speed Ahead, running from Tuesday through May 11, brings together sixteen films centered on trains, spanning various genres and eras. The event not only celebrates cinematic masterpieces but also sparks discussions about the potential revival of passenger rail services in the state. With screenings taking place in towns like Portland, Waterville, Boothbay Harbor, Rockland, Bethel, Belfast, Brunswick, Lewiston, Damariscotta, and Waldoboro, this statewide initiative highlights the cultural significance of both classic films and independent theaters. Through collaborations between eighteen nonprofit cinemas, museums, and schools, the festival aims to inspire dialogue regarding the future of transportation in Maine.
The concept of train-based films has long fascinated filmmakers and audiences alike. From Alfred Hitchcock's psychological thriller "Strangers on a Train" to Wes Anderson's comedic drama "The Darjeeling Limited," these movies evoke a sense of adventure that cannot be replicated by other modes of transport. According to Mike Perreault, executive director of the Maine Film Center, trains provide an exciting backdrop for storytelling, enhancing the cinematic experience. This sentiment resonates with Christina Belknap, executive director of Lincoln Theater in Damariscotta, who hopes the festival will encourage conversations about expanding passenger service throughout Maine.
One of the key objectives of Full Speed Ahead is to emphasize the importance of local, independent movie theaters within Maine communities. Anne Rogers-Popejoy, executive director of the Strand Theatre in Rockland, underscores the challenges faced by such establishments today. Despite operating as nonprofits due to declining ticket revenues, these theaters strive to foster community engagement through shared experiences. For instance, the Strand, established in 1923, will host two classic films—“Strangers on a Train” and “The Lady Vanishes”—featuring appearances by author and Turner Classic Movies host Alicia Malone.
In addition to showcasing iconic films, the festival offers several free screenings and events. Highlights include Robert Redford’s “The Natural” at Bates College in Lewiston, David Lean’s “Brief Encounter” at Eveningstar Cinema in Brunswick, and Buster Keaton’s “The General” at the Portland Museum of Art. These offerings aim to make cinema accessible to all while fostering appreciation for historical landmarks like the Colonial Theatre in Belfast and the Waldo Theatre in Waldoboro.
Beyond entertainment, Full Speed Ahead serves as a platform to address critical issues facing small communities. By promoting awareness of significant films in cinematic history and advocating for improved transportation infrastructure, the festival contributes to the economic, cultural, and social well-being of Maine. As noted by Perreault, such programming strengthens community ties while honoring the legacy of influential directors and their works.
Through its diverse lineup and inclusive approach, Full Speed Ahead exemplifies how art can inspire change. By bringing people together to enjoy timeless stories set against the backdrop of railways, the festival ignites hope for renewed interest in both classic cinema and modern passenger rail systems. Ultimately, it invites participants to reflect on the interconnectedness of culture, technology, and human connection in shaping our collective future.