Netflix’s Train Dreams Was Overwhelmingly Sad At Times, But I’m Glad I Watched It

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I recently went to the 61st Chicago International Film Festival and got to see Train Dreams before its official release. To be honest, there are so many promising movies coming out in 2025 that this one hadn’t been on my radar. Still, I’m a fan of both Joel Edgerton and Felicity Jones, so I was eager to see their performances.

I expected the movie to be a standard tale about chasing the American Dream. While it touches on those themes, it’s actually a much more serious and reflective story about life and mortality.

Warning: minor Train Dreams spoilers are ahead. Proceed with caution.

I Think Train Dreams Is One Of The Best Movies On Death Because Of How It’s Devastatingly Accurate On The Randomness Of It

Movies about death can be deeply moving and sad. Some focus on the overwhelming pain of grief itself, while others simply break our hearts by showing us the loss and suffering of those left behind. Filmmakers often explore this difficult subject, and it’s been handled with great sensitivity many times. However, I was particularly struck by how Clint Bentley, the director and co-writer of Train Dreams, approached the topic. I believe many of us want to feel like we have some power over life and death, and this film really resonated with that feeling.

While we logically understand that death is unpredictable and life rarely goes as planned, we often cling to the idea that we can control things. The film Train Dreams challenges this belief. Robert Grainier (played by Joel Edgerton) openly struggles with his fear of death. He once felt confident in his ability to survive, but after witnessing the random deaths of those around him, he realizes how little control he truly has.

This film illustrates the random and unavoidable nature of death – no matter how careful we are, we can’t escape it. While movies like the Final Destination series explore this idea, Train Dreams presents it in a particularly stark and believable way, emphasizing the unsettling truth that death is unpredictable.

It Really Made Me Reflect On How Fleeting Life Can Be

I understand that death is a part of life – both for myself and for the people I care about. But knowing this intellectually is very different from actually experiencing the loss. It’s something I fear, yet I recognize it’s unavoidable. Watching the film Train Dreams made me think about how I hope to have many more years ahead, although there’s no guarantee. Life is fragile, and any moment could be my last. Facing our mortality can inspire us to live more fully and appreciate each day.

It’s a gift to be alive, but we don’t always appreciate it. This film encourages you to think about how you’re spending your life and whether you’re making the most of it. It inspires you to live fully in the present, rather than waiting for an uncertain future. You’ll find yourself wanting to live a long life, but also feeling a strong desire to create meaningful experiences and cherish the memories you’ve already made.

Train Dreams Also Made Me Think Of Our Connection To Nature And The Cycle Of Life

While not explicitly about environmentalism, Train Dreams subtly explores themes related to nature and its preservation. The film centers on Robert, a lumberjack, and his colleagues, who occasionally debate the ethics of deforestation. They recognize the value and history contained within the trees they fell, and acknowledge how logging disrupts the natural cycle of life and death. There are moments where nature seems to retaliate against these men for their actions.

When we destroy things in nature, it disrupts a delicate balance, harming both the environment and ourselves. This film subtly highlights the importance of nature, making it a core part of the story. Recognizing the value of life and death also means respecting and protecting the natural world around us.

I Felt An Overwhelming Sadness About Life And Death, But I Think That Shows The Movie Got Its Messages Across

This movie isn’t the most heartbreaking you’ll find on Netflix, but it’s powerfully unsettling. The deaths feel incredibly realistic and happen so unexpectedly, creating a strong sense of dread. It’s a stark reminder of life’s fragility – something many of us avoid thinking about as we simply try to enjoy our lives. But watching a film like Train Dreams inevitably leaves you with a profound sadness.

This idea applies to everyone, not just the characters in the story. Life eventually ends for all of us, regardless of who we are or what we achieve. We all have a limited time, but we don’t know when our time will come. Watching this film might make you reflect on your own life – whether you’ve lived it fully, loved deeply, and made a meaningful difference, and if you’re ready for what comes next.

The movie really makes you think about life and death, and how precious life is. It’s a reminder not to waste a single moment, but to truly enjoy it in a way that feels right for you. Importantly, it also highlights the need to cherish your loved ones and protect the natural world. What makes Train Dreams so impactful is that it’s both deeply moving and motivates you to embrace life to the fullest.

I Love How Simple The Train Dreams Ending Is Because It Highlights The Simplicity Of Life And Death For Most People

Ideally, we all hope for a peaceful death, growing old and passing away naturally, either with family or with a sense of contentment. Robert experiences just that – he dies in his sleep, a common and fortunate end. I was relieved for him; he avoided the tragic fates of so many. Though he faced loss throughout his life, it was comforting to know he lived a full one.

Many people don’t get the chance, but those who live a long life and die peacefully from old age are truly fortunate—even if their lives weren’t filled with excitement. Simply growing old and dying naturally is a gift.

If you haven’t already, you should definitely check out Train Dreams on Netflix. It’s a thought-provoking film that encourages you to appreciate life and how precious it is.

Stream Train Dreams on Netflix.

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2025-11-21 22:46