Eleven minutes. One impossible choice. No dry eyes.
A father is working the controls of a railroad track, allowing approaching passenger trains to cross safely over the bridge. As one approaches, he sees his young son coming toward him on the tracks. It is at this moment the father must decide whom to save - the train full of passengers -- or his son. This powerful film poignantly illustrates the meaning of God allowing His son to die to save us.
Direction
Hatch stretches eleven minutes into eternal dread.
Acting
Hal Boynton's silent agony needs no dialogue.
Director
Robert N. Hatch
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This short film became a staple of 1980s youth groups, often shown without warning to unsuspecting children.
The film's power comes from what it omits—no music during the decision, just mechanical clacking and a father's breath.
US
