At the Liberty:"Train Dreams"

DAYTON — Based on a novella by Denis Johnson, “Train Dreams” is the story of Robert Grainier (Golden Globe-nominee Joel Edgerton), during an era of unprecedented change in early 20th-century America. Orphaned at a young age, Robert grows into adulthood among the towering forests of the Pacific Northwest, where he works in the expansion of the nation’s railroad. He works alongside men as unforgettable as the landscapes they inhabit. After a moving courtship, he marries Gladys (Academy Award-nominee Felicity Jones).  They built a home together with their daughter, though his work often takes him far away. When his life takes an unexpected turn, Robert finds beauty, brutality, and newfound meaning for the forests and trees he has felled. The cast includes Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, and William H Macy. It is rated PG-13 for some violence and sexuality with a runtime of 102 minutes.

“Train Dreams” has been nominated for four Academy Awards, and it was primarily filmed in Washington state, particularly in the eastern region. Many folks from the Spokane and Tekoa area were extras in the movie. This film has had a limited theatrical release, and The Liberty is excited to bring the full screen experience to Dayton. 

The movie was filmed in historical buildings, including the Tekoa Empire Theater, the St. Michael Mission Church, the Davenport Hotel, and the“Spokesman Review” Building in Spokane. Scenes were also shot in Colville, Chattaroy, Medical Lake, Snoqualmie, and other areas that showcase the state’s beauty. 

“Train Dreams” has been well received by critics and audiences. Two RottenTomatoes.com critics wrote, “A gorgeous meditation on America, ably shouldered by one of Joel Edgerton’s very best performances,” and “‘Train Dreams’ takes on mythic proportions while maintaining an intimate emotional delicacy.” Overall, the RT critics rate it at 94%. 

The RT audience reviews include, “Life’s raw emotions purely portrayed through film,” and “Captivating videography, soundtrack, and marvelous casting. This movie will stick with me for a very, very long time.”

Upcoming movies include “I Can Only Imagine 2” on March 13-17, “EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert” on March 20-24, and “Hoppers” on March 27-31. Scheduling is subject to change.