Clint Bentley’s film “Train Dreams” brings to life the poignant tale of Robert Grainier, portrayed by Joel Edgerton, who leads a quiet but deeply emotional life as a logger and railroad worker in the Pacific Northwest during the early 20th century. The film delves into the complexities of love, loss, joy, and grief, conveying the extraordinary facets of an ordinary existence set against the stunning backdrop of towering trees. The emotional weight of the narrative is accentuated by an evocative score from composer Bryce Dessner, whose music captures a broad spectrum of feelings that words alone cannot express.
Dessner, who has collaborated with Bentley on previous films like “Jockey,” found this project to be particularly meaningful. He describes the film’s landscape as rich with emotional information, akin to the art of German painter Anselm Kiefer, emphasizing the profound connection between the environment and the characters’ inner lives. Alongside the score, Dessner teamed up with musician Nick Cave to write and perform an original song for the film, also titled “Train Dreams.” Their collaboration was born out of a mutual admiration for the source material, highlighting the importance of creative partnerships in enhancing the film’s emotional resonance.
In discussing his process, Dessner notes the significance of his longstanding relationship with Bentley and Greg Kwedar, the film’s co-writer. He appreciates the creative freedom and trust afforded to him in their collaborations, allowing for an exploration of music as poetry rather than merely a solution to dialogue. This collaborative spirit enabled him to create a score that effectively complements the film’s atmospheric elements and character journeys, particularly given that much of the narrative unfolds with minimal dialogue.
Dessner’s approach to composing the score was deeply influenced by the historical setting of Denis Johnson’s novella, the original source material for the film. Utilizing vintage instruments reminiscent of the early to mid-20th century, Dessner aimed to evoke the essence of American folk music while also capturing the grandiosity of nature depicted in the film. The film’s climactic moments, particularly a fire scene, presented unique challenges where he sought to balance intense visual and auditory elements. The emotional intensity of that scene was heightened for him as he composed during a time of wildfires in California, adding layers of urgency and depth to the music.
Upon viewing the finished film, Dessner was struck by its artistic ambition and the beauty of its cinematography. He expressed pride in being part of a project that allows for artistic exploration without a rigid narrative structure. He sees the film as a significant achievement in cinema, blending visual artistry with profound emotional storytelling.
“Train Dreams” is currently available for streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a lyrical exploration of life’s profound moments through the deeply introspective lens of its characters. This film not only showcases the artistry of its creators but also stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in bringing a rich narrative to life.