Jessica Chastain is a distinctive figure among her Hollywood peers, having consistently chosen to portray complex, empowering roles that speak to societal issues in her films such as “Molly’s Game”, “The Eyes of Tammy Faye”, and “Miss Sloane”. Her choice in “Dreams” to showcase an inherently contradictory and self-deluding character can be seen as a daring leap for an actress who is mindful of the roles she chooses to play.
"Dreams" challenges the motives and ethics behind liberal activism and philanthropy, casting Chastain as Jennifer McCarthy, a wealthy San Francisco philanthropist who supports Mexican dancers in their home country. The narrative follows not only Jennifer, but also one of her beneficiaries, Fernando, lending a multi-faceted perspective to the movie.
Fernando's difficult journey across the border is depicted in a matter-of-fact style that allows the audience to form their perceptions of his character and his circumstances. Backstory and underlying information are deftly held back, adding layers of complexity to Fernando’s character, who becomes more than just his immigration status - he is also a gifted ballet dancer.
Fernando's unexpected presence in Jennifer's home reveals a tangle of power dynamics, personal history, and emotional entanglement. He attempts to establish a life in the U.S. on his own, away from Jennifer's control, adding to the intricate plot. Chastain's character masterfully manipulates her own philanthropic resources for personal reasons, exposing her selfish motives and underlining the moral undercurrents of the film.
"Dreams" is unafraid to delve into challenging subject matters, including socioeconomic disparities, age gaps, and cultural objectification. Fernando's journey and struggle in establishing his independence and demonstrating his talents underscore these themes. The powerful dramatic tension of the film, specifically in reference to Jennifer's relentless pursuit and manipulation to retain her relationship with Fernando, brings a thrilling dynamic to the film. The conclusion is as shocking as it is fitting, bringing the arc of the characters and their dream-chasing journey full circle.
