Streaming giant Netflix has just welcomed a powerful new addition to its library, a film already being declared one of the standout cinematic achievements of the year. The critically adored drama, Train Dreams, is now available for subscribers to stream, offering a poignant and beautifully crafted story.
A Critically Acclaimed Masterpiece
Originally premiering at the prestigious Sundance Festival in January and receiving a theatrical release on November 7, the film has garnered extraordinary praise. It holds an impressive 95% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences not far behind, giving it an 83% score. Based on Denis Johnson's beloved novella, the film has been described by critics as 'extraordinarily beautiful' and 'one of the best films of the year'.
The film features a stellar cast led by Golden Globe nominee Joel Edgerton in the central role of Robert Grainier. He is joined by Oscar nominee Felicity Jones, who portrays his on-screen wife, Gladys. The supporting cast includes acclaimed actors Kerry Condon, William H. Macy, Patrick Schneider, and John Diehl.
The Story and The Praise
Train Dreams is a heartwarming yet profound portrait of Grainier, an orphaned logger who spends his life working in the vast forests of the Pacific Northwest during the early 20th century. His quiet existence is upended by a period of great change in America, forcing him to confront profound loss and solitude, ultimately searching for new meaning amongst the trees he has spent a lifetime felling.
The film's reception has been overwhelmingly positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, user Bob S called it 'incredible viewing' with 'deeply complex' storytelling, while Karl P praised Edgerton's 'exceptional' performance, noting he was 'right there with the character' during the most poignant scenes.
Professional critics have been equally effusive. David Fear of Rolling Stone wrote that Edgerton gives you the sensation that no one else could have played the role within the first 30 seconds of him appearing on screen. David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter stated that the film elevates director Clint Bentley 'into the league of essential American filmmakers'.
Meanwhile, Linda Marric of HeyUGuys celebrated the film's quiet power, noting, 'In an age of spectacle and noise, Train Dreams dares to whisper. It invites you to slow down, breathe and notice the spaces between moments.'
Awards and Accolades
The film's quality has been recognised beyond reviews. Train Dreams has already secured nominations for Best Feature and Best Adapted Screenplay at the 2025 Gotham Film Awards. Furthermore, Joel Edgerton has won acting awards at several film festivals across the United States for his powerful performance.
Ahead of the film's Netflix debut on November 21, Edgerton shared his motivation for taking on the challenging role. The Australian actor, known for parts in Star Wars and The Great Gatsby, told Tudum, 'I always like to say that the reason to go to work is to be challenged, to challenge yourself, and to do things that are a little bit frightening.'
He also reflected on the film's core message, adding, 'I think the film is saying that, despite all the things that knock us down, human beings are incredibly good at standing back up. We know how to live and breathe, and we know how to absorb the world around us.'
Train Dreams is now available to stream globally on Netflix, offering UK viewers a chance to experience what is being hailed as a stunning and meditative piece of cinema.
