First Glance: “Train Dreams”

This year Netflix has what may be their best Fall lineup of original movies since their beginning. Firmly planted among them is “Train Dreams”, the sophomore feature film from writer-director Clint Bentley. This American drama is an adaptation on Denis Johnson’s 2011 novella of the same name. It premiered in January at Sundance and since has gained widespread praise. Even more, it has a sparkling cast highlighted by Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, Kerry Condon, William H. Macy, and Clifton Collins Jr.

“Train Dreams” is set in the rugged Pacific Northwest during the early 1900s. Edgerton plays Robert Grainier, a logger who goes to work building a railroad across the rapidly expanding United States. While his work keeps him in the outdoors he enjoys, it forces him to be away from his wife Gladys (Jones) and their young daughter. The movie follows this simple man’s life amid a world of unprecedented change. The first trailer reveals a near hypnotic beauty that manifests itself both visually and narratively. It looks to be exquisitely shot and the cast couldn’t be more perfect in this small but stunning slice.

“Train Dreams” releases in select theaters on November 7th and on Netflix November 21st. Check out the trailer below and let me know if you’ll be seeing it or taking a pass.

8 thoughts on “First Glance: “Train Dreams”

  1. This looks Great. Looking forward to seeing it. A potential for movie of the year if it moderates its dialogue to a minimum. Looks like the pictures can tell the story.

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