Mystery Train (1989)

Kernel Score: 83% · 494 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Comedy

Released: 1989-09-06

Runtime: 106 minutes

Where to watch Mystery Train

  • Stream: The Criterion Channel
  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

In Memphis, Tennessee, over the course of a single night, the Arcade Hotel, run by an eccentric night clerk and a clueless bellboy, is visited by a young Japanese couple traveling in search of the roots of rock; an Italian woman in mourning who stumbles upon a fleeing charlatan girl; and a comical trio of accidental thieves looking for a place to hide.

Mystery Train parents' guide: ages 15+

Parents need to know that Mystery Train is an R-rated comedy anthology set in a Memphis hotel over one night.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like Mystery Train

If you liked Mystery Train, these are the movies we'd watch next.

Director

Jim Jarmusch

Cast

  • Youki Kudoh as Mitsuko
  • Masatoshi Nagase as Jun
  • Screamin' Jay Hawkins as Night Clerk
  • Cinqué Lee as Bellboy
  • Nicoletta Braschi as Luisa
  • Elizabeth Bracco as Dee Dee
  • Joe Strummer as Johnny
  • Rick Aviles as Will Robinson
  • Steve Buscemi as Charlie
  • Tom Noonan as Man in Diner

Mystery Train FAQ

Is Mystery Train good?

Mystery Train has an 83% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 494 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Mystery Train?

In the US you can stream Mystery Train on The Criterion Channel and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango At Home.

Is Mystery Train OK for kids?

Mystery Train is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that Mystery Train is an R-rated comedy anthology set in a Memphis hotel over one night.

What movies are like Mystery Train?

If you liked Mystery Train, try A Face in the Crowd, The Blind Side, One Night in Miami... and Balls Up.