Train Dreams

'Train dreams' is a U.S. drama directed by Clint Bentley, who also co-writes the screenplay with Greg Kwedar. It is based on the eponymous novel published in 2011 by Denis Johnson. The film debuts at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival before being released on the streaming platform Netflix worldwide on November 21, 2025.

Robert Grainer is an orphan who grows up in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest in early 20th century America. He marries Gladys and they have a daughter, leading a simple life in a remote cabin away from civilization. Everything changes for Robert when a terrible wildfire takes the life of his wife and daughter, leaving him alone in the middle of the woods.

Robert's refuge is his profession, working on the railroad. As he lives the solitude of his misfortune, time - and the country - continues to evolve around him, forever changing the landscape that saw him grow up.

The film stars Joel Edgerton as Robert Grainer, alongside Felicity Jones as his wife Gladys. The cast also includes Kerry Condon, William H. Macy, Paul Schneider, and John Diehl among others. The film is narrated by Will Patton. Mostly filmed in the state of Washington, the movie receives unanimous acclaim from critics, who also highlight Edgerton's performance as central and essencial to understand the emotions that the film presents so graciously.