Clint Bentley on ‘Train Dreams’: ‘I Knew It Would Touch Hearts, But Not Like This’

A Journey Through Grief and Recognition

Clint Bentley, the director and cowriter of the film Train Dreams, is currently basking in the praise from both his peers in the film industry and the general audience. The American period drama, which he co-wrote with Greg Kwedar and adapted from a novella by Denis Johnson, tells the fictional story of Robert Grainier, portrayed by Joel Edgerton. This character navigates deep sorrow after experiencing significant loss in the Pacific Northwest.

Bentley had the opportunity to speak at the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards Nominee Brunch on January 11. The Netflix film, which premiered in November, has received several nominations, including Best Feature, Best Cinematography (Adolpho Veloso), Best Performance (Edgerton), and Best Director for Bentley, who was born in Florida and grew up on a cattle ranch. The awards ceremony is scheduled for February 15.

"I love the film and believed in it. … I felt like it would resonate, but not on this level," Bentley shared with Gold Derby during an event in London West Hollywood.

At the recent Golden Globes, Train Dreams is nominated for Best Performance by a Male Actor (Edgerton) and Best Original Song, "Train Dreams" by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner. The film has also earned five Critics’ Choice nominations and has been shortlisted in three categories for the 98th Oscars: Cinematography, Music (Original Score), and Music (Best Song). According to Gold Derby odds, it is projected to be nominated for Best Picture and adapted screenplay.

Bentley, who also co-wrote the Oscar-nominated film Sing Sing (2023) with Kwedar, highlights the most meaningful reactions to his latest work. He mentions that Minnie Driver sent him a message, and he has long been a fan of hers. Additionally, director Alejandro Iñárritu sent a note to Bryce Dessner, their composer, expressing how much he loved the film. Bentley finds it all quite overwhelming.

Guillermo del Toro, known for films such as Frankenstein and The Shape of Water, has also shown support. Bentley notes that del Toro has been very kind, not only in praising the film but also checking in on him to see how he’s managing the attention, which can be a bit overwhelming.

While recognition from filmmakers and actors whom he respects is enjoyable, Bentley finds the responses from everyday viewers particularly impactful. He receives messages like, "’I lost my child last year’ or ‘I lost a spouse and this movie helped me process through it.’ And that, honestly, means as much as hearing from a hero."

One of the perks of the Hollywood festivities is the camaraderie among the team. Bentley appreciates the chance to reunite with his crew, as they don’t often get to gather together. Adolpho lives in Portugal, he resides in Dallas, and Bryce Dessner is based in France. Greg Kwedar and he don’t live close to each other. Being able to come together, have a drink, and enjoy each other’s company has been a sweet experience.

Alongside Bentley and Edgerton, Saturday’s brunch also featured fellow nominees such as Rose Byrne, Jane Levy, Ethan Hawke, Tig Notaro, Tessa Thompson, Cherien Dabis, and Tony Benna. They gathered on the rooftop of a Sunset Strip hotel for the special celebration.

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