Film Review – Train Dreams (2025)

Film Review – Train Dreams (2025)

      Train Dreams, 2025.

      Directed by Clint Bentley.

      Starring Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, Kerry Condon, William H. Macy, Clifton Collins Jr., John Patrick Lowrie, Alfred Hsing, Ron Ford, Olive Steverding, Zoe Rose Short, Jennifer Simmons, Cisco Keanu Reyes, and Jerry Dykeman.

      SYNOPSIS:

      The narrative centers around Robert Grainier, a day laborer working as a logger involved in the expansion of railways across America. Required to be away from his wife, Gladys, and their young daughter for long stretches, Grainier struggles to find his place in a swiftly evolving world. Throughout his journey, he encounters profound love, unimaginable loss, and unique relationships, creating a story that is both individual and universal.

      Almost every moment of Train Dreams is steeped in overwhelming sorrow. It doesn't resort to emotional manipulation or heaviness but instead offers a deeper, more profound resonance, exploring the nuances of its main character and the broader universe.

      With Joel Edgerton delivering a remarkable performance as Robert Grainier, the early twentieth-century logger, director Clint Bentley (collaborating once again with Sing Sing's Greg Kwedar on the screenplay) adapts Denis Johnson's novella. This film narrates a comprehensive life during a pivotal developmental phase for America, capturing the highs and lows interspersed in a thoughtful manner, complemented by Bryce Dessner's evocative orchestral score. The stunning visuals by Adolpho Veloso not only delight the eye but also underline the importance of witnessing the beauty of the forests as they face destruction.

      Following captivating montages and narration that detail the difficult childhood of young Robert, the film eases into his life when he meets Gladys (Felicity Jones), whom he marries, builds a home with, and starts a family. While it may appear rushed in summary, the execution reveals an immediate and moving chemistry between the actors. They understand each other and the isolated life they aspire to lead.

      Robert’s work often takes him away from his family for extended periods, a pain that resonates with many in today's world, even if their absences aren't as prolonged. Logging jobs come with the risk of various fatal accidents (with multiple supporting characters providing a broader cultural perspective of America), gradually instilling in Robert a growing sense of dread about his own fate or a looming disaster.

      Additionally, Train Dreams incorporates an ecological perspective; as society cuts down trees and devastates forests to build railroads and enhance connectivity, it plays God and interferes with nature. William H. Macy portrays a wise logger (and expert in demolition) who, after many years in the field, realizes the ethical implications of this destruction. His standout supporting performance shines in a film rich with poetic reflections and subtly powerful acting.

      The film also explores themes that shouldn't be disclosed but can be described as haunting, steeped in survivor's guilt, inner turmoil, and a draining quest for meaning. This search often brings a heavy burden of false hope and an unbelievable twist of fate that feels genuine, despite its potential unreality. It’s a rare film that leaves viewers yearning for a happy ending, even if it feels unearned, due to the deep emotional impact of the sorrow presented. Fortunately, a touching scene near the end shows that no one is alone in their quest to comprehend the universe.

      Throughout this journey, Joel Edgerton excels in conveying emotion through body language. This film provides powerful, reflective storytelling on both a personal and grand scale, depicting laborers who contribute to the foundations of the world in both impactful and detrimental ways. Train Dreams explores the search for life’s purpose, but also contemplates the beauty of the world in light of its destruction, as society continues to advance and find new, rapid ways to devastate. Yet, amidst the confusion and the mix of good and bad, beauty persists.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Robert Kojder is part of the Chicago Film Critics Association, Critics Choice Association, and Online Film Critics Society, and also serves as the Flickering Myth Reviews Editor. Check here for new reviews and follow my BlueSky or Letterboxd.

Film Review – Train Dreams (2025) Film Review – Train Dreams (2025) Film Review – Train Dreams (2025) Film Review – Train Dreams (2025) Film Review – Train Dreams (2025)

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Film Review – Train Dreams (2025)

Train Dreams, 2025. Directed by Clint Bentley. Featuring Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, Kerry Condon, William H. Macy, Clifton Collins Jr., John Patrick Lowrie, Alfred Hsing, Ron Ford, Olive Steverding…