Movie Review: Dream Scenario
Nicolas Cage has made a storied career of tackling quirky, outside-the-box roles that only he could perfect. But the one-time Oscar winner becomes the thing of dreams as he returns to awards season form in A24’s hot new release, Dream Scenario, from director Kristoffer Borgli (Sick of Myself).
Cage stars as the quintessential “Joe Everyman”, Paul Matthews, a dull and forgettable small-school Biology professor who’s surprised to discover that some friends and acquaintances have noticed him appearing in their dreams. And when an ex-girlfriend and current journalist confesses that she’s dreamt of him as well, Paul agrees to do an interview. The article immediately goes viral, and Paul discovers that this strange phenomenon has gone global, transforming him into the most interesting man in the world despite that fact that he’s anything but.
Writer and director, Borgli handles the film’s bizarre and intriguing premise with extreme care, taking the audience on an unforeseeable journey of self-discovery for its main character. Filled with twists and turns, Dream Scenario follows the Roman Tragedy mold where Paul meets his tragic downfall at the hands of his own self-destructive character flaw. Here, his weakness is his desire for being someone of recognition. But be careful what you wish for, because his inexplicable appearance in dreams all across the globe transforms Paul’s life in a myriad of ways.
Despite the frequent tonal shifting that goes on throughout the film, a trait that works to Dream Scenario’s advantage, its dark comedy roots remain the connective constant. There are moments of pride, excitement, sadness, and suspense peppered all throughout this psychologically surreal narrative, but Borgli’s commitment to keeping things silly and authentic to human nature make the film a true darkly hilarious achievement.
Nicolas Cage’s character of Paul is an imperfect being, making him more complex and interesting by design. Cage feeds into this intrigue with a sincere reverence that enhances the various aspects of his character and the film in general. As Dream Scenario weaves through its ever-changing surreal landscape, Cage becomes a malleable star, striking all the right chords and playing to the moment with remarkable ease. The performance serves as a welcomed reminder as to just how precious and talented an actor he is. Do I believe that Nicolas Cage will find his way into the awards season discussion for Best Actor? No, I do not. But I can say with the upmost conviction that he’s extremely worthy of such accolades.
Dream Scenario stands as a brilliant blend of genuine creativity, human emotion, and Nicolas Cage at his absolute best. Paul’s unbelievable journey of self discovery culminates with a sad, yet perfect, finale that further cements Kristoffer Borgli’s latest work as one of the most fun and entertaining viewing experiences of the year.
GRADE: 4/5
