Train Dreams Locations

Train Dreams is an American period drama written by Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar and directed by Clint Bentley. It is based on the 2011 novella of the same name by Denis Johnson. The film tells a moving story that follows the life of Robert Grainier, a railroad worker in the rapidly changing America of the early 1900s. When an unexpected tragedy reshapes his life, he discovers both brutality and beauty through isolation. It is considered one of the most anticipated films of 2025. The novella won the 2003 O. Henry Award and became a finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

Critical Reception

The film received highly positive reviews, particularly for Clint Bentley’s direction and Joel Edgerton’s flawless performance. Bentley is also one of the writers of the 2025 film Sing Sing, an acclaimed prison drama directed by Greg Kwedar. Sing Sing was nominated for three Oscars, including Best Adapted Screenplay.

Cast and Release Information

The film features a strong cast, including Joel Edgerton as Robert Grainier, alongside Oscar nominees Felicity Jones, Kerry Condon, and William H. Macy. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 26, 2025, and was digitally released by Netflix on November 21, 2025.

Where Was Train Dreams Filmed?

Train Dreams is set in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, but was filmed in various locations across Washington State, including Spokane, Chewelah, Snoqualmie, Metaline Falls, and Colville.

Metaline Falls Filming Location

Metaline Falls is a small historic town in Washington situated on the eastern bank of the Pend Oreille River. The town is known for its heritage sites and natural protected areas such as the Colville National Forest.

Spokane Filming Location

Spokane, known as “The Lilac City”, is a major city in eastern Washington, located on the Spokane River. It has also served as a filming location for productions such as Benny & Joon, Tag, Smoke Signals, and Z Nation. Spokane was among the key locations for Train Dreams, with its proximity to natural landscapes, forests, rivers, and lakes. 

Additional filming for Train Dreams took place in Seattle, the largest city in Washington State. The logging camp scene was filmed in Colville at a real logging site that has been run by the same family since the 1800s.