Train Dreams Gains Momentum with Oscar Voters

As the 2026 Oscar season nears its conclusion, several Academy voters have shared their ballots with Gold Derby, revealing their choices and the reasoning behind them. A recurring theme in these ballots is support for Clint Bentley’s Train Dreams, a film that has resonated with voters seeking a thoughtful and beautifully crafted cinematic experience.

A Meditation on Life: Why Train Dreams Stands Out

One voter specifically highlighted Train Dreams as a “beautiful meditation on life,” praising its strong performances and gorgeous cinematography. While acknowledging the likely victory of One Battle After Another, the voter emphasized the captivating nature of Train Dreams and its ability to provoke personal reflection. Another voter noted their appreciation for Sentimental Value but ultimately favored Train Dreams.

Directorial Praise for Joachim Trier, but a Vote for Bentley’s Vision

Despite acknowledging Joachim Trier’s nuanced direction in Sentimental Value, one voter cast their ballot for Trier as Best Director, recognizing his ability to extract compelling performances and navigate sensitive subject matter. However, the voter as well expressed a belief that Ryan Coogler would be recognized with the Original Screenplay Oscar for Sinners.

Strong Acting Performances Recognized

Rose Byrne’s performance in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You received high praise, with one voter declaring her “one of the best actresses of our generation,” and her portrayal as the strongest vote of all. Renate Reinsve’s performance in Sentimental Value was also acknowledged as a strong contender. Michael B. Jordan was recognized for his work in Sinners, with a voter noting he was previously overlooked for his role in Black Panther and highlighting the challenge of portraying twin brothers. Ethan Hawke also received a mention for his fifth nomination.

Supporting Roles Shine

Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas of Sentimental Value earned a vote for Best Supporting Actress, with the voter acknowledging the difficulty in spelling her name but praising her illuminating performance. Teyana Taylor’s role in One Battle After Another was also commended. Jacob Elordi’s performance as the monster in Frankenstein was lauded as “riveting,” with the voter noting his ability to bring humanity to the role. Delroy Lindo’s performance in Sinners was also recognized.

Screenplay Accolades: Adapting Johnson’s Vision

The Adapted Screenplay Oscar was awarded to Train Dreams by one voter, who praised Clint Bentley and Greg Kewdar for successfully adapting Denis Johnson’s cerebral novella into a cinematic wonder. Guillermo del Toro’s screenplay for Frankenstein received an honorable mention. Ryan Coogler’s Original Screenplay for Sinners was favored, with the voter noting its strength in a genre often prioritizing spectacle over character development. Sentimental Value was also recognized as a strong contender.

Train Dreams, currently streaming on Netflix, has garnered critical acclaim and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 95% [FandomWire]. The film also won Best Feature at the Film Independent Spirit Awards in February 2026 [US Magazine]. The film received four Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Music, Cinematography and Adapted Screenplay [Seattle Times].