‘Train Dreams,’ directed by Clint Bentley and starring Joel Edgerton, is gaining significant acclaim and Oscar buzz. Bentley, who grew up on a cattle ranch, expressed surprise at the emotional resonance of his film, which depicts the life of Robert Grainier, a logger coping with profound grief in early 20th-century America. The film, adapted from Denis Johnson’s novella, is nominated for Best Feature, Cinematography, and other categories at the 2026 Oscars, and is considered a strong contender for Best Picture and screenplay. Bentley highlighted the film’s organic success, driven by word-of-mouth and heartfelt reactions from viewers, including messages from notable filmmakers like Alejandro Iñárritu and Guillermo del Toro, and touching responses from everyday audiences who have experienced personal loss. The film is also up for awards at the Golden Globes, Critics’ Choice, and is praised for its subtle storytelling, emotional depth, and minimal dialogue, which allows viewers to connect deeply with the character’s internal world. Joel Edgerton’s performance, which he describes as personal and transformative, is a key highlight, with Edgerton sharing insights into how the role has impacted him as a father and actor. The film’s quiet power and the emotional journey it offers have resonated widely, making it a notable contender in this awards season.