Train Dreams | A magnificent film about the fragility of life

by

Each plan of Train Dreams is a work of art. Each word resonates with a truth that goes straight to the heart and reaches the depths of the soul.


By the simplicity of its story, the authenticity of its performances and the beauty of its staging, Clint Bentley’s film (Jockey) captures the human experience in a masterful way.

Inspired by Denis Johnson’s book of the same name, Train Dreams chronicles the life of Robert Grainier (Joel Edgerton), a lumberjack working on railroad construction sites in Idaho in the early 20th centurye century. Orphaned, the boy had an uneventful childhood in a rapidly changing world.

His meeting with Gladys (Felicity Jones) a few years later will give meaning to his life. Following their marriage, the couple built a pretty house by the river and soon welcomed a little girl. Robert’s job forces him to leave his family for long months in the forest. But a home full of love always awaits him when he returns.

A tragedy will change the course of his life, and mark the beginning of a gap between man and the passing of time. However, generous souls will help him continue on his path.

Some scenes from Train Dreams break the heart, but at the same time remind us of the strength of love, friendship and nature. This is presented in all its splendor through wide shots and singular angles by cinematographer Adolpho Veloso, whose lens lingers in the same way we do when we catch our breath while admiring the horizon. The music of Bryce Dessner of The National amplifies the grandeur of the elements while evoking the fragility of life through a gentle piano.

See also  All the songs from the 'One Battle After Another' soundtrack

Joel Edgerton (Loving, The Gift, The Great Gatsby) delivers here the greatest performance of his career. Often only through looks and a few words, the Australian actor manages to communicate the joys, sorrows, pride, doubts, serenity and solitude of his character. Felicity Jones (The Brutalist, Rogue One, The Theory of Everything) is just as convincing. She perfectly embodies Gladys’ tenderness and temerity. Let us also note the performance as amusing as it is touching by William H. Macy.

If we ignore the sublime imaginations, the magnificent score and the breathtaking performance of the actors, the precariousness of our existence remains at the heart of the scenario by Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar, nominated for the Oscars for Sing Sing. Narrated in storybook style by Will Patton, Train Dreams comforts in pain, moves by reminding us of the beauty that surrounds us and demonstrates that time flies faster than a locomotive.

In theaters, then on Netflix on November 21

Train Dreams

Period drama

Train Dreams
(V.F. : Train dreams)

Clint Bentley

Avec Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, William H. Macy

1 h 42

8,5/10