---
title: "End of the Line"
year: 1987
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/end-of-the-line-1987"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 49855
imdb_id: null
status: "Unknown"
community_rating: 5.2
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "Unrated"
---

# End of the Line (1987) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/end-of-the-line-1987

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

End of the Line is a 1987 American drama film that explores the human impact of industrial decline. Directed by Jay Russell in his directorial debut, the story follows a group of railway employees who take drastic action by commandeering a locomotive to travel to corporate headquarters and challenge the president regarding the closure of their line. The film was shot on location in Arkansas and features a notable cast including Kevin Bacon, Bob Balaban, and Barbara Barrie. It serves as a narrative reflection on the tension between progress and the preservation of livelihoods. The pacing is consistent with a character-focused drama, emphasizing the emotional stakes of the workers' journey. Its cultural significance lies in its portrayal of labor disputes and the personal resolve of those facing economic displacement in the late 1980s.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "Laid-off railway workers hijack a locomotive to confront corporate leadership about their livelihoods."

### Why Watch
- Features an ensemble cast including Kevin Bacon, Bob Balaban, and Barbara Barrie.
- Marks the directorial debut of Jay Russell.
- Offers a unique premise centered on blue-collar defiance against corporate downsizing.

### Caveats & Content Note
- The film's specific focus on regional railway politics may not appeal to all viewers.
- Tone & Suitability: This is a PG-rated drama that maintains a serious, grounded tone throughout its one hour and forty-three minute runtime.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: #railroad-drama, #labor-dispute, #road-movie, #1980s-cinema, #corporate-confrontation, #arkansas-setting

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/end-of-the-line-1987#watch.

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Where can I watch End of the Line?
Streaming availability for this 1987 film varies by region and platform; please check your local digital service providers.

### Q: Is this film worth watching?
The film is worth watching for those interested in 1980s independent dramas and performances by its lead ensemble cast.

### Q: How long is the film?
The film has a total runtime of one hour and forty-three minutes.

### Q: Is this a series or a standalone film?
End of the Line is a standalone feature film, not a television series.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [End of the Line — The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/49855)
- [End of the Line (1987) - Full cast & crew - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0092967/fullcredits/)
- [End of the Line (1987 film) - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/End_of_the_Line_(1987_film))
- [End of the Line (1987) - Cast & Crew - The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/49855-end-of-the-line/cast)
- [End of the Line (1987) Cast & Crew | Moviefone](https://www.moviefone.com/movie/end-of-the-line/1010748/credits/)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*