Hell on Wheels (2004 film)

Hell on Wheels is a 2004 Canadian action film directed by Kari Skogland and starring Aidan Quinn, Pete Postlethwaite, and Michael Moriarty. The film is set in 1867 during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

The story follows Cullen Bohannon (Quinn), an ex-Confederate soldier who is seeking revenge for the murder of his wife and children. His search leads him to "Hell on Wheels," a mobile town that follows and supports the railway construction. He encounters a variety of characters, including a former slave, Elam Ferguson, a corrupt businessman, Durant (Moriarty), and Reverend Cole (Postlethwaite), a complex preacher struggling with his faith in the harsh environment.

The film explores themes of revenge, redemption, faith, and the impact of industrial progress on individuals and communities. It depicts the brutal conditions faced by the railway workers and the moral compromises made in the pursuit of ambition and profit. The narrative primarily follows Bohannon's quest for vengeance while showcasing the diverse and often conflicting interests within the Hell on Wheels camp.