A new animated film is proving that the genre can tackle complex, real-world issues with humor, heart, and profound honesty. “In Your Dreams,” an adventure-comedy opening this Friday, centers on a family navigating conflict. The film delivers the “necessary message” that “real families fight,” a truth that sets it apart from stories that depict unrealistically perfect family lives.
This challenging subject matter is handled with a deft touch by director Alex Woo (“Ratatouille” alum) and a talented voice cast. The story follows siblings Stevie (Jolie Hoang-Rappaport) and Elliot (Elias Janssen) on a magical quest. They seek The Sandman, hoping he can fix the marriage of their parents, who are voiced by Simu Liu and Cristin Milioti.
Simu Liu, who plays the father, has been a vocal supporter of the film’s honest premise. He was “fascinated” by the script’s rejection of the “false” narrative of the “always happy” family, a portrayal he says is “just not true.” He stressed the importance of kids seeing “imagery of families that aren’t perfect,” a mission the film accomplishes with grace.
The film’s blend of humor and heart is crucial to its success. It doesn’t dwell only on the conflict. The cast includes comedian Craig Robinson as Baloney Tony, bringing levity to the adventure. Furthermore, a “beautiful” duet between Liu and Milioti provides a “really great” moment of harmony, showing the love that exists even in difficult times.
The film’s most resonant moment is its conclusion. The young hero, Stevie, must accept the mature truth that “there is no magic solution to real-life problems.” “In Your Dreams” is a testament to the power of animation to tell stories that are not only entertaining but also emotionally truthful and validating for audiences.
