Many people are fascinated by train tracks. Some of my friends in school loved to hang out on the train tracks on the outskirts of my hometown. We used to walk and chat for long hours in the evening on the tracks. My uncle and I used to go for walks to a small railway platform near his house when I used to visit him during my college days. Locals visited this place like it was a park. The Station Agent reminds me of all those chit-chat sessions there.
Directed by Tom McCarthy, The Station Agent follows the story of Finbar McBride(also known as Fin), a reserved man played by Peter Dinklage. He moves to an abandoned train depot after his only friend passes away.
Fin remains apprehensive when he meets new people. He can easily show his annoyance to a clingy person. Yet, one of his most defining qualities is his dedication as a friend.
He encounters two different people – first, Joe, portrayed by Bobby Cannavale, a garrulous food truck owner who tries too hard to be Fin’s best friend. Fin doesn’t relate to Joe at all but despite the contrasting personalities complement each other as they spend more time together.
The second person Fin is introduced to Olivia, played by Patricia Clarkson, an artist who is grieving the demise of her son. A shared sense of loss becomes the foundation of their friendship.
The trio is incredible on screen, making their unlikely bond relatable in the train depot. They open up about their deepest insecurities, even views on horses.
It is also one of the rare films which show long walks across different stages of the film. The story literally moves forward with these steps.
The film’s key focus centres around people’s insensitive curiosity about Fin, ignoring how their apathy impacts him. With a sad smile, he admits, “It’s really funny, how different people see me and treat me. When I am actually just a normal, boring person.”
Thankfully, The Station Agent is never preachy. It is not a regular film about friendship where the protagonist is not a friendly person. A significant part of the film depicts how humans deal with their loneliness. Our loneliness can come from anywhere, whether it is a marital discord or insecurities about how we appear to the world. While some can adapt to being alone, others really struggle.
Despite all the struggles, friendships can give their own healing touch. Movies like The Station Agent ensure you become more empathetic and enjoy boredom as well. And yes, walking on a dormant rail track does feel nice.