Dream Scenario – Review

Dream Scenario focuses on evolutionary biologist Paul Matthews (Cage), a local university professor and family man living with his wife (Nicholson) and two daughters. Paul’s psyche is rocked as a strange phenomenon begins overtaking the world: Paul is showing up in random people’s dreams all over the planet.

No one knows why, no one knows how, and Paul is left reeling as his world shifts beneath his feet. Will this be a good thing? Will this bring additional challenges? How does one handle such an extraordinary event? How will the world react?

The interesting concept is matched with a very dreamlike approach to the movie, as dreams are often inserted into scenes, or some scenes begin semi realistic before revealing themselves to be something else entirely. It must have been an adventure to plan out and execute this script, and it was great the script attracted a good cast.

The movie is played seriously, despite some ridiculous scenes and funny moments. The cast gives very nuanced performances, and even smaller characters feel fleshed out.

The film remains mostly humorous, however eventually descends into a more nightmarish tone, mirroring surrounding chaotic events. Some parts are even challenging to watch, as they are like a horrifying delusion. By the end, the film shifts gears again back to solemness but with a bit more capitalistic fun. The director maintained the balance of all elements fairly cohesively considering the high concept story and multiple shifts in tone.