The first trailer for Train Dreams has arrived, unveiling a cinematic world shaped by loss and identity. Directed by Clint Bentley, with a script co-written by Bentley and Greg Kwedar, this film is based on the acclaimed 2011 novella by Denis Johnson. Set in early 20th-century America, it follows Robert Grainier, a logger who grapples with the harsh realities of a life spent away from his family while the world around him rapidly transforms.
Starring Golden Globe nominee Joel Edgerton (Loving), two-time Oscar nominee Felicity Jones (The Brutalist, The Theory of Everything), and other talented actors such as Clifton Collins Jr., Kerry Condon, and William H. Macy, the cast alone sets high expectations for this poignant story. The recently released official teaser trailer not only showcases the impressive ensemble but also hints at a rich emotional landscape, capturing the struggles and beauty of Grainier’s life in a changing America. Watch the trailer below:
What The Train Dreams Trailer Means For The Movie
It’s Netflix’s Biggest Oscar Contender
Though the awards season has yet to unfold, the Train Dreams trailer positions the film as Netflix’s biggest contender for the Oscars. Premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, it garnered rave reviews, with critics praising its stunning visuals and deeply human story, reflected in an impressive 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
This acclaim is echoed in the trailer that highlights the remarkable themes of memory and identity. Critics have described it as “a staggering work of art” showcasing “breathtaking visual splendor” and the “career-best performance from Joel Edgerton.” His portrayal of Robert Grainier is expected to be a significant focus of award-season discussions, supported by his star-studded fellow cast members, including previous Oscar nominees Felicity Jones, Kerry Condon, and William H. Macy.
Directed by Clint Bentley, who co-wrote the script with Kwedar—both of whom previously received an Oscar nomination for their work on Sing Sing—there’s a strong sense of artistic integrity guiding this project.
Our Take On The Train Dreams Trailer
Is It This Year’s Brutalist?
The trailer suggests that Train Dreams could serve as this year’s representative of Great American Epics, much like The Brutalist. Both films delve into themes of identity, dislocation, and reinvention amidst tumultuous shifts in American history. Each narrative frames its protagonist’s personal struggles against the backdrop of societal transformation during the early 1900s, featuring stunning performances and breathtaking visuals.
Interestingly, Joel Edgerton was initially cast in The Brutalist before being replaced by Adrien Brody, who later won an Academy Award for that performance. Felicity Jones also starred in The Brutalist, earning her own Oscar nomination. Now, Train Dreams presents Edgerton with another opportunity to shine in a narrative rich with historical depth and emotional resonance.
Train Dreams is set to release on November 21 on Netflix, marking a promising addition to the platform’s slate of powerful narratives.