"The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3" is a 1974 thriller film directed by Joseph Sargent. The story revolves around a group of armed criminals who hijack a subway train in New York City. They demand a ransom for the passengers, leading to a tense standoff with law enforcement. The film features Walter Matthau as a transit police lieutenant and Robert Shaw as the hijacker leader. It explores themes of crime, negotiation, and the challenges of urban life. The movie has been praised for its suspenseful plot and strong performances, becoming a classic in the heist genre.