Wed Jan 07 05:10:00 UTC 2026: # “Train Dreams” Screenwriters Reflect on Adaptation Process

The Story

Screenwriters Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar engaged in a conversation reflecting on their process of adapting Denis Johnson’s novella “Train Dreams” into a film. The discussion highlights their initial impressions of the book, key memories from the writing process, and the evolution of the story through production. Both screenwriters emphasized the importance of capturing the novella’s grand scope and intimacy, as well as the collaborative nature of bringing the story to the screen.

Key Points

  • Initial Excitement: Both Bentley and Kwedar were immediately drawn to the novella’s ability to convey a complete life in a short space and its blend of reality and dreams.
  • Idaho Trip: A research trip to the Idaho panhandle, where the story is set, deeply influenced their writing. Meeting locals, observing the landscape, and listening to the audiobook shaped their understanding of the material.
  • Character Development: The screenwriters highlighted the invention of Claire Thompson as a U.S. Forest Service employee as a pivotal moment in unlocking deeper meaning within the script.
  • Collaborative Evolution: The writing process extended through all stages of production, with the script evolving based on the contributions of various artists involved.

Key Takeaways

  • Adaptation is a deeply interpretive process that requires understanding both the grand themes and subtle nuances of the source material.
  • Experiential research, such as visiting the setting of the story, can significantly enrich the creative process.
  • Collaboration and openness to new perspectives are essential for allowing a story to evolve and resonate with a broader audience.
  • The writing process doesn’t end with the script, but continues through production and even in response to audience reception.

    Read More