New York Metropolitan Transit Authority train dispatcher Walter Garber's day is turned upside down when he must face-off against Ryder, the criminal mind that has hijacked the passengers of subway train, Pelham 1-2-3. Ryder is the leader of a highly-armed gang of four, including a henchman who used to work for the MTA. NYPD Hostage Negotiator Detective Camonetti initially takes charge of the situation, but quickly realizes that Ryder will only deal with Garber. Garber begins to employ his vast knowledge of the subway system in a battle to outwit Ryder and save the hostages.

Based on the novel by John Godey. Special features: Commentary by director Tony Scott ; commentary with writer Brian Helgeland and producer Todd Black ; No time to lose: making of Pelham 123 featurette ; The third rail: New York underground featurette ; From the top down: stylizing character with Danny Moumdjian ; marketing Pelham.