The movie focuses on Arizona at the end of 19th century where ruthless outlaw Ben Wade and his dangerous gang have dominated the Southern Railroad. When Wade is arrested, Civil War veteran Dan Evans, a rancher who is struggling to survive the drought, volunteers to escort him alive to the "3:10 to Yuma," a train that will take the killer to trial for a $200 reward. With dangers lurking everywhere, the rancher is determined to complete his commission.