Bullet Train Explosion (2025) directed by Shinji Higuchi, is a high-stakes Japanese action thriller and a modern reimagining of the 1975 classic The Bullet Train. The film follows the harrowing journey of the Hayabusa No. 60, a Tokyo-bound E5 Series Shinkansen, which is rigged with a bomb set to detonate if its speed drops below 100 km/h. As the train hurtles through eastern Japan, conductor Kazuya Takaichi (Tsuyoshi Kusanagi) and his crew race against time to prevent catastrophe, all while managing panicked passengers and navigating complex political and technological challenges. The tension escalates when it’s revealed that the bomber is Yuzuki Onodera, a young woman seeking vengeance for past injustices, adding a deeply personal dimension to the crisis.

Higuchi, known for Shin Godzilla, brings his signature blend of human drama and spectacular visuals to the film. Utilizing real Shinkansen trains and facilities provided by East Japan Railway Company, the production achieves a remarkable level of realism, further enhanced by cutting-edge visual effects. Beyond its thrilling narrative, Bullet Train Explosion delves into themes of collective responsibility, the ethical complexities of heroism, and the enduring spirit of Japanese resilience. The film stands as both a gripping suspense story and a poignant commentary on modern society, making it a standout addition to Netflix’s 2025 lineup.