The ‘masterpiece’ drama was adapted for the screen by Oscar-nominated filmmakers and features an equally impressive cast
A ‘breath-taking’ drama that has been hailed as the best film of the year is now streaming on Netflix.
Based on American author Denis Johnson’s novella of the same name, Train Dreams was adapted for the screen by Oscar-nominated duo Greg Kwedar and Clint Bentley.
The pair previously collaborated on acclaimed film Sing Sing, which bagged three nominations at this year’s Academy Awards.
It turns out they struck gold again with Train Dreams, which already boasts a stellar 94% Rotten Tomatoes score.
Set against the backdrop of early 20th Century America, the film follows the life of logger and railroad worker Robert Grainier (portrayed by Golden Globe nominee Joel Edgerton).
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Robert is married to Gladys (played by Academy Award-nominee Felicity Jones) and they share a daughter. But his job often takes him away from his young family
When Robert’s life takes a dark turn, the synopsis teases that he “finds beauty, brutality and newfound meaning for the forests and trees he has felled”.
From there, the story dives into thought-provoking themes including love and grief.
Edgerton and Jones are joined by Hollywood legend William H. Macy, who film fans will recognise for his iconic roles in Fargo and Boogie Nights.
With this all-star cast and crew, it’s no surprise Train Dreams has received overwhelming praise.
Taking to Rotten Tomatoes, one fan raved: “Best film of 2025 and I see a lot of films.”
Someone else praised the drama’s “breath-taking cinematography”.
While a third shared their emotional reaction, penning: “I have no words. My tears have said everything I need to say.”
Someone else chimed in with: “Train Dreams feels like you’re watching a poem unfold before your eyes. It’s visually stunning and Joel Edgerton is wonderful. This movie is one you’ll think about more after you’ve finished watching it.”
Yet another viewer said: “An incredibly poignant and artful masterpiece. Joel Edgerton quietly pulls off a performance of a lifetime.”
Train Dreams is streaming now on Netflix
