In the real world, keeping Davey would be kidnapping, so presumably his visit would be over in minutes. I suppose once again we could suspend disbelief and call this plot development for the sake of the film, but the problem is that it doesn't fit with the first act, where Tom has built up an emotional wall and Megan is absolutely distraught over everything she failed to accomplish in life. Almost overnight, these three people have bonded like a family and are going out to restaurants, parks, and getting ice cream cones - Megan's terminal cancer seemingly forgotten.

Without giving away the ending, I know in real life some stories do end the way Rails & Ties does, but it seems like the easy way out, given the amount of time and emotional energy that was put into setting up what seemed to be an entirely different story. I found no comfort in the ending and felt like the film put me on an unnecessary emotional rollercoaster. I would love to know whether anyone besides Micky Levin did rewrites on the script, because the film plays out like it was culled together from several different ideas.

Despite the uneven script, the always reliable Kevin Bacon and Marcia Gay Harden deserve credit for turning in some brilliantly emotional moments as a couple in crises. Harden has several scenes where she personifies human suffering without seeming to try. At the start of the film, Kevin Bacon makes it clear that the railroad is his safe haven and the rule book his guide, with just the expressions on his face.

I don't think it's fair to put the blame for the serious flaws of Rails & Ties at the feet of Alison Eastwood. She was dealing with a fundamentally flawed script that even the most seasoned directors couldn't have rescued. Perhaps she should have chosen better material for her first feature, but I respect her for trying to tackle a difficult subject. It will be interesting to see how her next project develops.

The Rails & Ties DVD is presented in widescreen format with Dolby digital 5.1 surround sound. The film also includes English, French, and Spanish subtitles.

The DVD offers little in the way of special features. There are a few additional scenes.