Dreams follows American socialite Jennifer (Jessica Chastain), whose father runs a prestigious international arts collective. Jennifer’s affair with Mexican ballet dancer Fernando (Isaac Hernández) convinces her to cross the border to be with him. As it becomes clear that their relationship cannot be as free as Fernando desires, Jennifer must find another way to be with him while Fernando continues following his dreams of performing.
The film has a flatter visual style, but this is common in director Michel Franco’s work. It frequently uses natural light in stark, deliberate ways, finding situations and settings that naturally interact beautifully with light, even indoors. The dance sequences are well-executed, showcasing ballet as a compelling art form while highlighting the talents of the performers. Hernández’s experience and training make his ballet performance convincing and fluid, which adds to the film’s realism.
The film does suffer somewhat in other English performances and plotlines. While Jessica Chastain has previously worked with Franco and clearly understands the required performance style, other English-speaking actors occasionally feel out of place in vocal delivery and presence. This contrast can make the world of the film feel more melodramatic than its grounded narrative warrants. Conceptually, the film resembles a tragic love story remix, but it mostly remains rooted in realistic situations and quarrels.
The film devotes a significant amount of time to Jennifer’s high-class life, often showing her managing her father’s arts foundation for Fernando’s benefit. These moments also reveal her privilege: she lives in a world where it feels like her main role is problem-solving. In contrast, Fernando faces constant obstacles and judgment. However, there is little escalation of the underlying conflicts that separate Jennifer and Fernando—whether in terms of nationality or class. The drama that persists focuses on Jennifer hiding her relationship with Fernando, anticipating her family’s reaction, and navigating Fernando’s differences.
Fernando’s limited agency for large portions of the film undercuts the story’s intended impact. While the film avoids direct political critique, it illustrates societal pressures through the characters’ struggles. When the characters around them feel flat at certain points, it is harder for the audience to become invested. Perhaps Fernando’s lack of agency is intentional: he is subject to a system that restricts his freedom, limiting both his artistic development and his romance with Jennifer. The result is a unique film, though it may not appeal widely.
Dreams is available on VOD/Digital on Friday, April 10th, 2026.
