Director Alex Woo is poised to unveil his debut feature film, In Your Dreams, on November 14, 2023, after a limited theatrical release earlier this month. This new animated adventure, available on Netflix, explores the complexities of family dynamics through the lens of a young girl’s imaginative journey.
The film follows Stevie, a girl concerned about her parents’ faltering relationship, and her younger brother Elliot as they traverse the landscape of their dreams. Their adventure leads them to encounter bizarre creatures while seeking the elusive Sandman, hoping to achieve a picture-perfect family. This comedic yet poignant tale offers a vibrant color palette and relatable themes, making it ideal for family viewing during the holiday season.
A Decade in the Making
Woo’s journey to realize this project has been a long one. After leaving Pixar a decade ago, where he contributed to beloved films such as Ratatouille and WALL-E, he founded Kuku Studios. The concept for In Your Dreams originated during this period, but the production process faced numerous challenges, including those posed by a global pandemic.
Reflecting on the experience, Woo expressed both relief and anxiety at finally sharing his creation with the world. He likened the process to sending children off to school, saying, “You spend so much time nurturing them and preparing them for the real world, and then you just go, ‘Okay, I hope people like you!’” He credited his commitment to filmmaking as a driving force that ultimately helped him navigate the difficulties of remote work and production delays.
Exploring the Imperfect Family
At the heart of In Your Dreams is a genuine portrayal of family struggles, drawn from Woo’s own childhood experiences. He described the process of bringing this narrative to the screen as both cathartic and emotional. “It’s both cathartic, and quite emotional,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of diving into the character’s psyche.
Woo believes it is essential for films to reflect the realities of life, particularly the imperfections within families. He stated, “There’s not enough of these stories that give children and audiences in general a really honest portrayal of life.” This commitment to authenticity resonates throughout the film, as it presents an honest narrative that acknowledges life’s complexities.
In addressing societal pressures regarding dreams and aspirations, Woo expressed a desire to shift the conversation away from unrealistic expectations. He remarked, “There’s so much pressure on both kids and adults to make their dreams come true, and though it can be healthy, it feels to me that there’s too much emphasis on it in our culture – and it can become quite toxic.”
As Woo prepares for the release of In Your Dreams, he reflects on the influence of various films that have shaped his artistic vision. He cited classics like The Iron Giant and Finding Nemo, expressing admiration for their emotional depth. He also acknowledged the impact of live-action films, particularly those by Steven Spielberg, which have left an indelible mark on his storytelling approach.
In summary, In Your Dreams represents a significant milestone for Alex Woo, combining personal narrative with broader themes that resonate with audiences. As it prepares to launch on Netflix, the film promises to engage viewers with its heartfelt exploration of family and the journey toward acceptance.
