Joel Edgerton and Clint Bentley's collaboration on 'Train Dreams' is a powerful story, but it's a tough sell in Hollywood. The film, based on Denis Johnson's novella, follows the life of Robert Grainier, a lumberjack who embodies the spirit of America's westward expansion. But this isn't your typical western. Grainier's story is one of quiet struggle, a man at the mercy of life's currents, with a touch of the supernatural. It's a spiritual journey, as Bentley and Edgerton describe it, but one that studios were hesitant to greenlight.
Edgerton, who plays Grainier, and Bentley, the director, faced an uphill battle pitching this unique tale. It's a story of a man who doesn't make choices, who is pushed around by life, and that's not the typical Hollywood hero. Bentley adds that the film has supernatural elements, and Edgerton emphasizes its spiritual nature, requiring patience from the audience.
The film's beauty lies in its rugged and pitiless portrayal of Grainier's life, set in the Pacific Northwest. Edgerton's performance is a standout, capturing the stoicism and heartbreak of a man torn between his work and his family. But the film's journey to the screen is as fascinating as its content.
Edgerton, a veteran actor, and Bentley, a director with a unique collaborative approach, both understand the challenges of the industry. Edgerton, who has played tough characters in films like 'Zero Dark Thirty' and 'The Great Gatsby', reveals his own struggles with balancing work and family. He compares Hollywood filmmaking to logging, a privileged yet challenging life.
The film is a personal journey for both men. Bentley, whose father was a jockey, sees parallels between his father's life and the characters in his films. He reflects on the ambivalence of the cowboy life, the yearning for home, and the call of the wild. Edgerton, too, finds personal resonance in Grainier's story, imagining the tragedy of losing a child.
The article delves into the creative process, with Edgerton discussing his approach to direction and the importance of communication between actors and directors. He believes that directors should lead and guide actors, but some fear doing so. This dynamic is crucial to the film's success, as it ensures the actors' performances are aligned with the director's vision.
'Train Dreams' is a critical success, with rave reviews and Oscar buzz. Yet, it also serves as a reminder of life's fleeting nature. As Edgerton poignantly notes, every human achievement, from railroads to films, risks fading into obscurity. The film's analog nature, shot in the woods with real people, adds to its preciousness in a digital world. This powerful story, with its unique perspective on the American dream, is a testament to the enduring power of cinema.
