Brad Pitt's demanding shooting schedule meant he often couldn't perform all his own stunts, so his double, who is an accomplished martial artist, took on many of the more dangerous scenes.

Why it matters: This decision allowed for more complex action sequences that heightened the film's intensity while keeping Pitt safe. It demonstrates the level of thought and planning involved in choreographing the film's many fight scenes.

The film used a fully functional train that was temporarily rerouted for filming, which posed logistical challenges and required extensive coordination with rail authorities.

Why it matters: Using a real train adds authenticity to the film's setting, enhancing the tension and drama of the characters' interactions aboard the train. It creates a more immersive experience for the audience.

Director David Leitch appears as a background character in a scene, showcasing his desire to stay connected to the film's action even when behind the camera.

Why it matters: This cameo adds an insider's touch that fans often appreciate. It shows Leitch's commitment to the project and gives a sense of personal investment in the film's success.

The film features multiple references to El Paso, Texas, which were inspired by Leitch's childhood experiences to add a personal touch to the narrative.

Why it matters: These subtle influences provide depth to the characters' backstories, making them feel more relatable and grounded, which enhances audience engagement.

Many of the film's comedic lines were improvised by the actors, particularly Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Brian Tyree Henry, who worked collaboratively to bolster their characters' chemistry.

Why it matters: The improvisation adds spontaneity to the film, creating memorable moments that resonate with viewers. It exemplifies the talent of the actors and their ability to elevate the script.

The film's vibrant color palette was specifically chosen for its psychological impact, influencing how audiences feel about the characters and their situations.

Why it matters: This choice enhances the film's dynamic energy and helps differentiate between the various character arcs, maintaining viewer interest throughout the story.

Leitch, known for his action films, enlisted top stunt coordinators to craft intricate fight scenes, ensuring that each character's fighting style was unique.

Why it matters: This emphasis on character-driven fight choreography allows viewers to better understand the personalities and relationships of the characters, making the action sequences more impactful.

Several Japanese filmmakers were consulted during the writing process to ensure cultural references were accurately depicted and respected.

Why it matters: This effort enhances authenticity and contributes to the film's overall narrative depth, making it appealing to a wider audience.

The film was shot with the intention of being experienced in theaters, with sequences designed to maximize audience engagement on the big screen.

Why it matters: This dedication to cinematic presentation ensures that viewers are captivated by the film’s visuals and sound, making it a memorable experience.

The script underwent numerous revisions, with input from both the writers and cast members, allowing for a blend of humor and action that is central to the film's identity.

Why it matters: The collaborative scriptwriting process helps balance the tone of the film, making it accessible to both action and comedy fans and ensuring a cohesive narrative.

Filming took place in several locations across Japan, including Tokyo, where filmmakers aimed to capture the city's vibrant atmosphere and energy.

Why it matters: These diverse settings contribute significantly to the film’s visual appeal and authenticity, making it a more engaging experience for audiences who may be familiar with these locales.

Each character was assigned a backstory by the writers, which was not necessarily included in the final cut but informed their performances and interactions.

Why it matters: Providing actors with rich backstories allows them to embody their roles more deeply, resulting in performances that feel nuanced and compelling, adding layers to the viewing experience.

The crew filmed at actual train stations rather than sets to enhance the film's realism, often facing challenges of noise and crowd control.

Why it matters: Realistic settings help draw audiences into the story, as the hustle and bustle of real life adds an authentic backdrop to the film's action.

The film showcases several scenes involving food, requiring a dedicated culinary team to ensure authenticity and proper preparation on set.

Why it matters: These culinary details not only enrich cultural representation but also highlight character traits and relationships, enhancing the narrative's depth.

The action sequences were storyboarded in extensive detail, allowing for precise filming and efficiency on set, a technique Leitch adopted from his experience in stunt coordination.

Why it matters: Well-planned sequences result in smoother filming and enable actors to deliver more engaging performances, contributing to the film's overall dynamic pace.

The iconic voice of the train announces various train stops and delays, provided by a well-known voice actor, serving as a comedic and thematic element.

Why it matters: This little detail adds humor and consistency to the film, contributing to the overall tone while also creating a memorable auditory experience for the audience.

The production design team drew inspiration from classic Japanese films to create interiors that not only serve the narrative but also pay homage to cinematic traditions.

Why it matters: These design choices add layers of meaning and depth to the film, creating an appreciative nod to film history that fans may recognize.

Critics initially suggested that the film's stylistic choices might overshadow character development, prompting a group discussion after the first few screenings.

Why it matters: This dialogue around character vs. style highlights the filmmakers' attention to audience reception, reinforcing their commitment to a balanced narrative.

The climax was filmed using a combination of practical effects and CGI, creating a high-stakes environment that felt visceral and engaging.

Why it matters: The blending of these techniques enhances the film's suspenseful tone and allows for extraordinary visuals that captivate audiences.

The film's eclectic soundtrack was curated to reflect the diverse nature of the characters, tapping into various genres to enhance emotional resonance.

Why it matters: This choice supports character development, setting the mood for significant scenes and impacting the audience’s emotional connection to the story.

During the table read sessions, actors contributed suggestions to refine dialogue and dynamics, leading to improved chemistry on screen.

Why it matters: This collaborative effort not only hones the script but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among the cast, enhancing their performances.

Costume designer's choices included symbols to reflect characters' personalities—like buttoned-up suits for one character symbolizing their control versus others in loose, chaotic attire.

Why it matters: These visual cues add layers of meaning that can alter viewers' perceptions and interpretations of the character dynamics.

The film was meticulously edited to maintain a brisk pace that reflects the urgency of the scenarios, with precise timing adding a crucial element of suspense.

Why it matters: The careful pacing keeps the audience engaged and on the edge of their seats, ensuring that the tension is palpable throughout.

The film pays homage to various action films and tropes, inviting audiences to draw comparisons and recognize influences that underpin the story.

Why it matters: These nods to classical cinema create a richer viewing experience, encouraging fans to appreciate the film's place within the broader context of action genre history.

The film's unexpected twists and revelations were crafted through a series of brainstorming sessions to ensure they would be both surprising and satisfying.

Why it matters: These well-placed twists invigorate the narrative, making it more engaging while also rewarding attentive viewers with deeper layers of storytelling.