Last Train to Fortune (2025) is an American Western adventure-comedy directed by Adam Rifkin. The screenplay was originally written by his mother, Michele Rifkin, and famously won the PBS “Great American Western Screenplay Competition” in 1986. The film stars Malcolm McDowell, James Paxton, Mary Steenburgen, Bernadette Peters, and Laura Marano.
Set in the rugged Old West, the story follows Cecil Peachtree, a scholarly British schoolteacher, and Jedidiah Dooley, an illiterate outlaw, who form an unlikely partnership after a chance encounter at a lonely train platform. As they journey through gunfights, jailbreaks, dusty saloons, and narrow escapes, their uneasy bargain evolves into a deep and unexpected friendship. The film also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the late Bill Paxton, with his son James Paxton stepping into the role originally intended for him.
Last Train to Fortune will make its world premiere on November 8, 2025, in association with the Ojai Film Festival.
Last Train to Fortune Age Rating
Last Train to Fortune is officially rated PG-13 for violence, language, some suggestive material, and smoking. The film blends comedic adventure with classic Western action, resulting in a moderate level of intensity but staying within typical PG-13 boundaries.
Violence & Peril
The movie includes several Western-style action scenes involving gunfire, saloon fights, horseback chases, and a few moments where characters face real danger. None of the violence is graphic, although gunfights may be intense for younger viewers. Peril is often balanced with humor, but the film still deals with outlaw activity, jailbreaks, and threats common to the genre. The tone remains adventurous rather than brutal.
Language
Moderate language is present throughout. Characters occasionally use mild and mid-level profanity, fitting the rugged Western environment. No racial slurs are used. The language is noticeable but not excessive, and it remains within PG-13 expectations.
Mature Themes
The movie explores themes of unlikely friendship, moral growth, courage, and redemption. There are a few moments of light suggestive humor tied to saloon culture, but no explicit sexual content. Characters smoke on screen, which parents should note. Topics related to criminality, deception, and personal transformation appear but are handled with heart and humor rather than heaviness.
Is Last Train to Fortune Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: With Guidance. Younger tweens may enjoy the humor and adventure but should be prepared for gunfights, tension, and Western-style danger. Parents may want to provide context about outlaw behavior and the film’s historical setting.
Ages 13–15: Yes, With Mild Guidance. Most teens in this range will handle the PG-13 content easily. Violence is moderate, language is mild to moderate, and the themes are accessible. The emotional storyline of bonding and personal growth may resonate with this age group.
Ages 16+: Yes. Older teens will find the film engaging, warm, and entertaining. The thematic depth around friendship and legacy adds emotional richness without being too heavy.
Final Recommendation: Best suited for ages 12+, depending on sensitivity to Western action and moderate language.
What Parents Can Do
- Discuss Western violence: Help kids understand the difference between stylized, genre-based action and realistic violence.
- Talk about friendship and growth: Use the film’s central relationship to explore empathy, unlikely friendships, and moral choices.
- Explain historical context: Highlight the norms of the Old West, including smoking, outlaws, and frontier culture.
FAQs
Q: What is Last Train to Fortune rated?
A: It is rated PG-13 for violence, language, some suggestive material, and smoking.
Q: Is the movie appropriate for teens?
A: Yes. Most teens 12+ can watch it comfortably, though younger viewers may need guidance.
Q: How violent is the film?
A: It includes several gunfights and action scenes typical of Westerns, but nothing graphic or gruesome.
Q: Is there any sexual content or nudity?
A: No. Only mild suggestive humor related to frontier saloons appears.
Q: Does the film contain strong language?
A: Some moderate profanity is present but within PG-13 boundaries.
Q: Where will Last Train to Fortune be available?
A: It premieres on November 8, 2025, at the Ojai Film Festival. Distribution details will be updated when announced.