Dreamland – Film Review

A teen bounty hunter is torn between helping or capturing a seductive fugitive bank robber hiding in his small town during the Great Depression.

Dreamland, directed by Miles Joris-Peyrafitte, invites viewers on a haunting and visually striking journey through a desolate landscape. The film immerses us in a post-apocalyptic world where hope flickers like a dying ember. With its atmospheric cinematography, strong performances, and thought-provoking narrative, Dreamland manages to captivate and unsettle audiences, even if it occasionally falters in its execution.

Set against a backdrop of barren landscapes and dilapidated structures, Dreamland creates a bleak and desolate atmosphere that seeps into every frame. The cinematography, expertly handled by the talented crew, evokes a sense of desolation and despair, amplifying the film’s themes of isolation and survival. The color palette, dominated by muted tones and somber hues, enhances the mood and adds to the overall feeling of decay and hopelessness.

In the lead role, Margot Robbie delivers a captivating performance as the enigmatic protagonist. Robbie portrays a complex character with a haunting mix of vulnerability and determination. Through her subtle gestures and expressive eyes, she communicates the profound emotional journey her character undertakes. Robbie’s performance anchors the film and gives it a much-needed emotional core.

Finn Cole shines as the young and impressionable Eugene, who becomes infatuated with Robbie’s character. Cole brings a naivety and innocence to the role that contrasts sharply with the harsh reality of the world around him. His performance showcases a believable transformation from a wide-eyed dreamer to someone confronted with the harsh realities of survival.

One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to tackle weighty themes such as desperation, morality, and the human condition. Dreamland poses thought-provoking questions about the lengths people are willing to go to survive and the blurred lines between right and wrong in a post-apocalyptic world. The narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, with flashbacks and dream sequences interspersed throughout, adding to the overall sense of disorientation and unease. These narrative choices serve to deepen the story’s impact and keep the audience engaged.

However, while Dreamland succeeds in creating a compelling atmosphere and presenting intriguing ideas, it occasionally falters in its execution. The pacing, at times, feels uneven, with certain sequences dragging on while others feel rushed. This unevenness can disrupt the film’s overall flow and impact, making it harder for viewers to fully immerse themselves in the story.

Additionally, some characters and subplots feel underdeveloped, leaving them lacking the necessary depth to make a lasting impact. Certain relationships and motivations could have been explored further, which would have added more layers to the narrative. These missed opportunities leave the audience craving more substance and prevent the film from reaching its full potential.

The film’s sound design and score deserve special mention for their contribution to the overall atmosphere. The haunting melodies and atmospheric soundscapes perfectly complement the desolate visuals, further immersing the audience in the film’s bleak world. The sound design, too, is carefully crafted, with every rustle of debris and gust of wind adding to the immersive experience.

Dreamland‘s production design and visual effects also deserve recognition. The post-apocalyptic world is richly detailed, with meticulous attention to detail evident in every frame. The crumbling buildings, littered landscapes, and makeshift shelters all contribute to the film’s believability and make it easier for viewers to suspend their disbelief.

Dreamland is a visually stunning and thematically ambitious film that manages to leave a lasting impression. Miles Joris-Peyrafitte’s directorial vision shines through in the atmospheric cinematography and captivating performances, particularly from Margot Robbie and Finn Cole. While the film occasionally stumbles in its pacing and underdeveloped subplots, it still succeeds in exploring thought-provoking themes and delivering a haunting experience.