Time: 100 Minutes
Age Rating: R13 – Bloody violence, offensive language, sexual material & content that may disturb
Cast:
Nicolas Cage as Paul Matthews
Julianne Nicholson as Janet Matthews
Michael Cera as Trent
Tim Meadows as Brett
Dylan Gelula as Molly
Dylan Baker as Richard
Director: Kristoffer Borgli

I was looking forward to Dream Scenario. I am a fan of Nicolas Cage, so naturally I was curious to check it out, but the movie itself also seemed interesting, with its premise of Cage appearing in people’s dreams. While I do think that the movie was good, I wish that I loved it more than I actually did.

The trailer certainly makes Dream Scenario look like a comedy, especially with the premise of Nicolas Cage randomly showing up in people’s dreams. That said, the movie is a lot darker than the marketing lets on. Much of it is sad and depressing, and there’s an uncomfortable feeling and existential dread throughout. It is layered and somewhat satirical, presenting themes about modern day celebrity culture and the negative sides of fame, while also fitting in moments of humour. That said, there’s a turning point halfway through in which there is a notable shift, thematically and tonally. It gets considerably darker and starts to look into the effects of Cancel Culture, and I have noticed that this is an aspect that has turned a lot of people against the film. Mild spoilers here, but it involves people turning against its lead character after the dream appearances of Cage become more violent, despite him not having control of the dreams. I thought it was interesting how public perception can change both you and your perception of yourself. Still, this second half becomes a bit of a slog, and I’m not sure that the Cancel Culture stuff entirely works, even though it could’ve been a lot worse. Tonally, it’s all over the place (even though I’m sure some of that is intended), and at times its themes and messages are unclear and even confused.

Nicolas Cage is of course in the movie and he’s not only incredible, this is very likely one of his all time best performances. He’s still recognisable even amongst the prosthetics and hair and makeup work, but through his acting he actually disappears into this role. He gives so much depth, layers and nuance to a seemingly passive and overlooked, yet subtly narcissistic and self centered professor who finally gets attention. He’s riding a very fine line, delivering on the humour but also on the drama and emotion. Despite the outlandish premise, Cage’s character still felt like a real person, and even in the moments in which the movie doesn’t entirely work, he helps anchor the movie and keep you invested. The rest of the cast is good, especially Julianne Nicholson as Cage’s wife, and Michael Cera is a standout.

Kristoffer Borgli directed this quite well overall. I particularly liked the portrayal of dreams, how surreal they are, and the stunning 35mm cinematography helped with that.

While it begins to decline about halfway through, Dream Scenario is a solid, darkly comic and uncomfortable film with interesting ideas, and a fantastic performance from Nicolas Cage. I think it’s worth a watch for yourself, but be wary about your expectations if you watched the trailer.