Based on the novel by Denis Johnson, Train Dreams is well-written masterpiece that weaves through changes due to unexpected life complications. Love and life are lost, yet there are also moments of restoration. At the same time, the inspiration to keep one’s head together keeps the momentum afloat. Directed by Clint Bentley, this is his second-best installment since Sing Sing. However, there are more real-life tracks exploring changing times in this film. The 20th century is dramatized in a cinematic dome of complexity in Train Dreams.

The film’s main characters are Robert and Gladys Grainer (Joel Edgerton and Felicity Jones) who play husband and wife. Robert Grainer is the primary breadwinner of the family and works as a logger and a railroad employee. He tries to work hard to maintain his happy family, but reality hits hard when there is a fire. Gladys and their child go missing. Robert begins to lose work and must find odd jobs. During this time, finding side gigs is not easy. In Train Dreams, the impact of doing hard physical work and its connection to mental issues are highlighted.

The vibrant and humanistic personality portrayed in Edgerton’s performance is full of heart. He displays what it looks like to never give up. There are others around him who do not give up on him either. One of these supporters is Arn Peeples, played by William H. Macy. He is an old colleague who is always focused on working hard. However, he knows the hardship endured when seasons change. The changing weather conditions add extra weight to the losses at the center of Train Dreams.

The story also reveals that there are different notions regarding what is lost and what can be restored. It is abundantly clear that things can’t be fixed overnight. During an era with limited technological advancements, the level of patience required in Train Dreams prompts caring audiences to pray for the Grainer family, especially for Robert since Gladys is the one missing. The focus of the prayers is for Robert to find more work and to be reunited with his family again. While he is the one most impacted, others who work on the railroad or as loggers are suffering too. 

Many moments are woven uniquely together in Train Dreams and include shifting patterns of working, feeling lost, and being forced into a pause mode. The lighting and cinematography areout of this world. The scenes of the mountains surrounding theareas where the film is set create a sense of urgency and aspiration. Filmed in and around the beautiful rural forests of Washington state, the trees and the skies shine a light throughout Train Dreams. It is a magnificent portrait with a 20th century adaptation and takes audiences on a breathtaking journey to remember that everyone deserves a chance. Also, it is a reminder that there is still good in the world, even during times when it seems that all is lost. One of the best films of 2025. Four out of four stars for Train Dreams.