What is the story of "Train Dreams" about?

"Train Dreams" follows the story of a logger, played by actor Joel Edgerton, as he battles against the forces of nature throughout the 20th century.

How did the cinematographer, Adolpho Veloso, aim to connect the audience to "Train Dreams"?

Veloso and the filmmakers decided to shoot the movie in a 3:2 aspect ratio, which is more commonly associated with still photography, in order to create a personal, intimate connection with the audience, as if they were watching their own family photos or memories.

What was the key to the film's visually stunning and immersive quality?

According to Veloso, the decision to shoot entirely on location, allowing the filmmakers to respond to the natural light and environment in the moment, was crucial in creating the film's impressionistic, contemplative feel.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Cinematographer Shares Secrets Behind Netflix's Visually Stunning "Train Dreams"

Cinematographer Shares Secrets Behind Netflix's Visually Stunning "Train Dreams"

13 Nov

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Summary

"Train Dreams" garnered praise for its lush natural imagery and immersive period detail
Cinematographer Adolpho Veloso aimed to create an impressionistic, contemplative viewing experience
Shooting in a 3:2 aspect ratio helped connect the audience to the film's personal, intimate feel

Cinematographer Shares Secrets Behind Netflix's Visually Stunning "Train Dreams"

In 2025, Netflix's "Train Dreams" has garnered well-deserved praise for its visually stunning and immersive depiction of the 20th century. The film, which debuted at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, follows the story of a logger (played by Joel Edgerton) as he battles against the forces of nature.

According to cinematographer Adolpho Veloso, the key to the film's success was creating an impressionistic, contemplative viewing experience. "We really wanted it to feel like you're watching someone's memories," Veloso explained during a recent cinematography roundtable. To achieve this, the team decided to shoot the movie in a 3:2 aspect ratio, more commonly associated with still photography than contemporary cinema.