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Berlin Express (1948) is a film directed by Jacques Tourneur that takes place in post-World War II Germany. The story follows the journey of a group of international passengers on board the Berlin Express, a train travelling from France to Berlin. The passengers include an American agricultural expert, Robert Lindley (Robert Ryan), a Frenchman, August Helm (Charles Korvin), a former Nazi sympathizer and a German musician, Hans Schmidt (Peter von Zerneck), among others.

The driving force behind the story is a mysterious group that aims to disrupt the reconstruction of Germany by wreaking havoc on the Berlin Express. They aim to create a sense of chaos and confusion by sabotaging the train, but Lindley and the other passengers band together to foil their plans. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles such as stowaways, kidnappings, and assassination attempts, all while trying to solve the mystery of who is behind the attacks.

At times, the film takes on a documentary-like quality, as we see real-life footage of bombed-out cities and desperate refugees. The film serves as a commentary on the state of postwar Europe and the efforts to rebuild in the wake of devastation.

Merle Oberon plays Lucienne, a French woman who becomes romantically involved with Lindley. Although her character is not central to the story, she provides a welcome distraction from the tension and danger faced by the other passengers.

The performances by all the actors are strong and believable, especially Ryan as the rugged, no-nonsense Lindley. The chemistry between Ryan and Oberon is also noteworthy, adding a touch of romance to the tense, action-packed story.

Director Jacques Tourneur's signature style is evident throughout the film, with his use of shadow and darkness to create a sense of foreboding. The tight, claustrophobic feeling of the train is also effectively captured, adding to the tension and sense of danger.

One of the most compelling aspects of Berlin Express is its portrayal of the complex political landscape of postwar Germany. The film shows the tensions between the occupying forces and the German people, as well as the rising threat of communism. In one scene, a character argues with Lindley about the American presence in Germany, questioning their motivations for occupying the country.

Overall, Berlin Express is a thrilling, suspenseful film that explores the aftermath of war and the challenges of rebuilding. The mystery and action keep the audience engaged, while the themes of politics and morality add depth and complexity to the story. Fans of classic film noir and political thrillers will find much to enjoy in this forgotten gem.

Berlin Express is a 1948 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.