Train Dreams: A Beautiful Adaptation of a Beloved Book with Guest Jess Walter

Benji and Luke are joined by award-winning novelist Jess Walter. Born and raised in Spokane, Jess has written several novels set in the Inland Northwest, including The Cold Millions. They begin the episode with an exploration of Jess's background, including his relationship with Denis Johnson, the author of the novella Train Dreams. Jess offers insights and perspectives about the practice of his works being adapted for the screen. Then, they dive deep into the moments from the movie including key distinctions between the movie and the book. Finally, they wrap up the episode with their overall thoughts about Clint Bentley's Train Dreams and the meaning it has to the city of Spokane.

00:00 - Intro of the podcast and guest Jess Walter
07:42 - Jess describes how historical, real-life figures are used in The Cold Millions as well as Train Dreams
11:16 - Luke asks Jess questions about his career going from reporter to novelist to having his nonfiction book, Ruby Ridge, adapted into a CBS miniseries starring Randy Quaid, Laura Dern, and Kirsten Dunst
13:36 - A discussion of expectations going in and general impressions of the movie Train Dreams
23:04 - A brief background on the filmmakers behind Train Dreams
26:52 - A deep dive into the moments from Train Dreams including audience feedback from our first screening of the movie
1:12:02 - The ending of the movie and Jess's final thoughts about the success of the adaptation of one of his favorite books
1:17:00 - Benji and Luke wrap the episode with their summary of where Train Dreams sits among other movies made in and around Spokane


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