A trio of low-end crooks decide to hit the bigtime by robbing a first-class train car, filled with rich and famous passengers. Arranged in a hurry, the execution doesn't quite go according to plan.
The title PANIC ON THE 5:22 might conjure up thoughts of mass hysteria and gunfire aboard a speeding train. Well, get those thoughts right out of your head. This is a mostly dialogue-driven, made-for-TV drama. So, expect lots of talk, yelling, and some gun waving.
Much of the story seems lackadaisical, like it's being written on the spot. This makes it rather difficult to follow, not because it's overly complex, but due to its overall dullness. Any real action is saved for the closing minutes, when the ineptitude and insanity of the criminals really shines.
It's wonderful to see the likes of Lynda Day George and Bernie Casey, even though they don't have much to do here.
Not a total shambles, but not that exciting either...