What 2010 action thriller, directed by Tony Scott, stars Denzel Washington and Chris Pine as two railroad employees attempting to stop a runaway freight train carrying hazardous materials?

The 2010 action thriller you're thinking of is "Unstoppable." Directed by the late Tony Scott, the film features Denzel Washington as a veteran engineer named Frank Barnes and Chris Pine as a young conductor named Will Colson. Together, they embark on a perilous mission to stop a massive, unmanned freight train, known as "Triple 7," which is hurtling out of control and carrying highly flammable and toxic (Review) chemicals through populated areas of Pennsylvania.

"Unstoppable" is renowned for its intense, fast-paced action and the director's commitment to practical effects, with much of the movie filmed using real trains moving at speeds up to 70 mph. This approach brought a significant level of realism and urgency to the on-screen peril. The movie draws inspiration from a true event, the 2001 CSX 8888 incident, often referred to as the "Crazy Eights" incident, where a runaway train traveled 66 miles through Ohio. While the film takes creative liberties for dramatic effect, it captures the essence of the real-life danger posed by such an uncontrolled locomotive.

This film marked the fifth and final collaboration between Denzel Washington and Tony Scott, a partnership that consistently delivered high-octane thrillers. Washington, playing a seasoned railroader facing forced early retirement, and Pine, as a rookie conductor, navigate a tense situation that tests their skills and courage. "Unstoppable" received generally positive reviews from critics and was a box office success, grossing over $167 million worldwide, and even earned an Oscar nomination for Best Sound Editing. Its blend of thrilling action, a compelling premise, and strong performances makes it a memorable entry in the action thriller genre.