Joel Edgerton's 'Superpowers' as a Dad in 'Train Dreams'
Joel Edgerton, often hailed as 'underrated', is making waves with his latest film, 'Train Dreams', which has critics buzzing and predicting Oscar nominations. The movie, streaming on Netflix, tells the elegiac story of a logger, Robert, navigating unspeakable tragedy in the early 1900s Pacific Northwest, finding connection and hope in the people he meets over the decades.
Edgerton's portrayal of Robert, a man grappling with his role as a father, resonates deeply with audiences. The actor, who has a family of his own, found a personal connection to the character, drawing on his experiences as a father to bring authenticity to the role.
But here's where it gets interesting: Edgerton's journey to becoming a dad actually 'came in handy' while making the film. He read Denis Johnson's novella years ago, intending to direct it, but the rights were already taken. Fast forward to 2021, when Edgerton and his wife welcomed twin daughters. The next year, director Clint Bentley approached Edgerton about starring in 'Train Dreams', unaware of his personal connection to the material.
Bentley recalls, "We talked a lot about being fathers: wanting to protect your children and give them a good life, while also feeling powerless to do so at times. Joel really helped unlock a lot of the emotional depth of the film."
Edgerton's family background as sheep farmers and train drivers also added depth to his performance. He says, "It made me feel like I was walking in their shoes a little bit. But even more so, I could relate to Robert, who nurtures his infant daughter with his tender wife, Gladys."
Edgerton's spontaneity and creativity in parenting, especially in unscripted scenes with his children, mirrored Robert's natural parenting style. He says, "One of my superpowers as a parent is not planning and organizing. I’m very good at being in the moment with my kids and using my creativity."
Despite his steady Hollywood career, including writing, directing, and acting in award-contending films, Edgerton remains grounded. He jokes, "If I read an article saying, 'Whatever happened to Joel Edgerton?' I’d be like, 'Whatever happened? I’ve been right here all along!'"
Edgerton's hope for 'Train Dreams' is that it will continue to allow him to do more beautiful films in the future. As he gears up for the holidays, he's planning a ski trip with his family, embracing the joy of Christmas with his kids, just as Robert and Gladys did in the film.
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