Time Table

Time Table is a 1956 American Western mystery film directed by Mark Robson. The film follows the story of Ben Wade (played by William Holden), an infamous outlaw who masterminds a daring train robbery, and Jeff Garrett (played by Fredric March), a tough insurance investigator hired by the railway company to track down Wade and his gang. The film begins with Ben Wade and his gang setting their sights on a luxurious Orient Express-type train, known as the Overland Limited, which travels from San Francisco to Chicago. Wade's gang carefully plans the robbery, selecting the perfect time and location to strike. Their meticulous research leads them to believe that the Overland Limited will pass through the small Arizona town of Red Rock, which happens to have a railroad station with an easily accessible vault containing cash and valuable items. As the investigation unfolds, Garrett's attention is drawn to the Red Rock Railroad Station, where he suspects the planned robbery will take place. Garrett's primary concern is not to apprehend Wade or his gang but to prevent the loss of the valuable items stored on the train, which will cause significant financial hardship for the railway company. Garrett's arrival in Red Rock coincides with the arrival of the townspeople, who are mostly outlaws and outcasts seeking a fresh start. One such individual is Mark McCormack (played by Everett Sloane), a smooth-talking, fast-talking gambler who befriends Garrett and tries to offer him valuable information. However, McCormack's true allegiance remains unclear, making Garrett question his intentions. Despite the warning signs, Garrett decides to continue the investigation, focusing on Wade's gang and possible accomplices within the town. However, he soon realizes that Red Rock is a complex web of loyalties and rivalries that can change suddenly, making it difficult for him to distinguish friend from foe. The dynamics in Red Rock become increasingly tense, as Garrett finds himself dealing with corrupt railroad officials and town residents with questionable motives. Amidst the escalating tension, Garrett's investigation intensifies, and he manages to gather crucial information that ultimately leads him to a surprising revelation about the planned robbery. Wade's plan involves bribing the local railroad officials and using inside information to execute the robbery undetected. However, Garrett remains hot on his heels, racing against time to apprehend Wade and his gang before they carry out their plan. In a tense and suspenseful conclusion, Garrett's investigation culminates in a dramatic showdown between the insurance detective and the infamous outlaw, Ben Wade. Throughout the film, the narrative explores the nuances of the Western genre, highlighting the gray areas between good and evil. Wade, the charismatic outlaw, is shown to have a code of honor, while Garrett, the tough insurance investigator, has his own set of motivations that blur the lines between right and wrong. The film also delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and personal redemption, all of which contribute to a rich and engaging narrative. With a gripping storyline and impressive performances from its ensemble cast, Time Table is a classic Western mystery film that offers a thrilling, suspenseful experience. By exploring the complexities of the characters and the world of the Western genre, the film delivers a compelling narrative that will keep viewers invested until the very end.