From director Alex Woo, a “Ratatouille” alum, comes “In Your Dreams,” a new animated adventure-comedy that is earning praise for its emotional honesty. Opening this Friday, the film leverages Woo’s experience in crafting heartfelt animated stories to tackle a complex subject: family conflict. The film’s central premise is that “real families fight,” a message that moves the genre forward by embracing realism over idealized fantasy.
Woo’s film centers on siblings Stevie (Jolie Hoang-Rappaport) and Elliot (Elias Janssen), who are struggling to cope with the tension between their parents. In a desperate act of childhood hope, they set off on a quest to find The Sandman, believing he can provide a “magic solution” to their parents’ marital problems. This fantasy framework allows Woo to explore deep emotional truths in an accessible, engaging way.
The cast is led by Simu Liu and Cristin Milioti as the parents, with Craig Robinson also starring as Baloney Tony. Liu, in particular, has praised the film’s direction, stating he was “fascinated” by its premise. He has openly rejected the “false” narrative of the “always happy” family, arguing that “it’s just not true” and that it’s crucial for children to see imperfect, relatable families reflected on screen.
Under Woo’s direction, the film is more than just a somber lesson. It’s filled with humor, adventure, and moments of genuine warmth. A “beautiful” duet between Liu and Milioti provides a poignant moment of harmony, which Milioti called a “really great” song. This balance of light and shadow is a testament to Woo’s nuanced storytelling ability.
The film’s powerful conclusion is what truly resonates. Instead of a magical fix, the young protagonist Stevie must accept a harder truth about the limits of magic in the real world. “In Your Dreams” successfully delivers a complex, necessary message, proving that animation under a skilled director like Woo can be a powerful medium for exploring real-world issues with authenticity and heart.