Denis Johnson’s novella “Train Dreams,” which poignantly captures the rugged life of a logging laborer in early 20th-century Washington, has now been adapted into a film directed by Clint Bentley on Netflix. The film, while visually stunning and dreamlike, diverges from the book in significant ways, reshaping the themes of morality and personal redemption.
The story revolves around Robert Grainier, portrayed as a dedicated laborer who grapples with the harsh realities of his life and labor. Although the film retains the essence of Grainier’s struggles, it softens some of the novella’s darker moments and alters the protagonist’s moral complexities. For instance, a scene where Grainier assists in a fatal act against a Chinese laborer is transformed; in the film, he is merely a bystander who weakly defends the man, shifting the focus from personal guilt to the broader societal sins of industrialization.
The adaptation taps into contemporary themes surrounding the exploitation of land and labor, resonating with the current climate of vulnerability for public lands and the people who work them. As wildfires have become a common concern, the film’s vivid representation of logging and its consequences feels particularly relevant. The protagonist’s experiences, intertwined with personal and societal challenges, evoke reflections on the nature of work—and life itself—as interconnected and often fraught with existential dilemmas.
Visually, “Train Dreams” showcases the breathtaking landscapes of Washington, highlighting the relationship between humans and nature through rich imagery of logging crews amidst grand stumps and trees. It reinforces the reverence for the environment even as the characters alter it, echoing sentiments reminiscent of renowned naturalist John Muir about the interconnectedness of all life.
The lines delivered by various characters resonate deeply, emphasizing the intricate tapestry of existence and the vital importance of recognizing our roles within nature’s framework. The film poignantly illustrates the oft-invisible labor that supports cultural ideals of the West, making visible the struggles of those who work in the fields, trails, and forests.
While Bentley’s adaptation presents challenges and changes that may leave dedicated readers wanting, it also offers a renewed perspective on the themes of connection among humans and nature, suggesting that out of these relationships comes the potential for redemption. The film’s exploration of this interdependence resonates powerfully in today’s fragmented world, reminding audiences of our shared responsibilities in caring for both the land and each other.