Prepare to embark on a cinematic journey that will leave you captivated and curious! Train Dreams on Netflix: A Terrence Malick-esque Tale Without the Divine Intervention.
Film critics often use the term "novelistic" as a subtle praise for lengthy yet captivating films, and Train Dreams, an adaptation of Denis Johnson's 2011 book, certainly fits the bill. This soothing period piece, lasting an hour and three-quarters, follows the quiet life of Robert Grainier, a logger played by the exceptional Joel Edgerton, who finds solace in the wilderness of America's Pacific Northwest.
The story spans across time, from the late 1800s, where a young Robert, likely an orphan, boards a train to rural Idaho, to the 1960s, showcasing the vast expanse of Grainier's life. However, the plot takes an unconventional turn, meandering like a writer's thoughts, with no strict three-act structure. Instead, it's a gentle accumulation of meaningful moments.
Some of the most enchanting scenes involve simple pleasures: Edgerton playing by the river with his on-screen daughter, sharing tea on a veranda at sunset, or deep conversations under a tree with William H. Macy's character, who muses on the unity of nature. Despite these seemingly mundane moments, the film captivates and leaves you wondering how it all comes together.
Directors Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar, known for their work on the acclaimed prison drama Sing Sing, capture the beauty of Grainier's life on the fringes of modern progress. They do so without over-romanticizing or over-exaggerating, allowing the airy and dappled photography to speak for itself. Grainier's dreams, experienced during his time away from home, bring him closer to his family and childhood memories, intertwined with visions of the landscapes he's shaped and the faces of fellow laborers.
Here's the intriguing part: Train Dreams feels like a Terrence Malick film, but without the explicit religious undertones. It hints at the divine, yet never preaches. It's a quiet, thoughtful exploration of life and its complexities.
Catch it in select cinemas now, and on Netflix from November 21st.
Recommended for those seeking a cinematic experience that challenges the traditional narrative structure and invites reflection.
What do you think? Is this a film you'd be intrigued to watch? Do you prefer films that explore the human experience without explicit religious themes? Let's discuss in the comments!
