Our Review

               Movie: IN YOUR DREAMS

     Rating: PG, thematic content, scary                       images, action/peril and some

                          rude humor`

                        Length: 1:26

              Release Date: November 7, 2025  

Jeanne: IN YOUR DREAMS is a very special animated film from Netflix about childhood --- and childhood dreams. Based on an original story by Stanley Moore and Alex Woo, who also co-wrote the screenplay and co-directs with Erik Benson, a great deal of IN YOUR DREAMS reflects back upon Woo’s own experiences growing up.

 

Stevie (voiced by Jolie Hoang-Rappaport) is a 12-year-old perfectionist who adores her parents, Jennifer (Cristin Milioti) and Michael (Simu Liu), and tolerates her messy, and rather boisterous 8-year-old brother, Elliot (Elias Janssen). But as much as Stevie loves her family, she’s very concerned about her parents’ marriage.

 

An ancient book gives Stevie an idea. If she and Elliot can enter the world of dreams --- and stay asleep --- they can search for the Sandman (voiced by Omid Djalili). He has the power to grant them the wish they desire most of all --- keeping their family together. Along for the ride is Elliot’s long-lost favorite stuffed animal, Baloney Tony (voiced by Craig Robinson), a faded, one-eyed giraffe who smells like baloney.

Woo had a similar experience at the age of six when his parents separated. They did reconcile, but it left a mark on him and his brother. He has always wanted to tell this story --- and after 10 years IN YOUR DREAMS has come to life.

 

He and Benson have created a screenplay that handles Stevie’s angst in a meaningful way, while retaining its childlike wonder. Plus, it is laugh-out-loud funny, which parents will appreciate.

 

And while there are a few scenes that could be potentially frightening for the toddlers, over all IN YOUR DREAMS is absolutely terrific entertainment for the entire family --- including grandparents. Do not miss it --- it’s sure to become a classic!

 

    Available in limited theaters November 7th              and on Netflix on November 14, 2025

 

Opinion: See It Now!

David: The new animated film from Netflix, IN YOUR DREAMS, has a plethora of good things going for it. A strong voice cast with primarily lesser-known actors carries the day for writers Alex Woo and Erik Benson, who also co-direct

 

A 12-year-old girl named Stevie (Jolie Hoang-Rappaport, notably from HBO’s “The Watchmen”) and her 8-year-old brother Elliot (Elias Janssen, notably from TV’s “The Mindy Project”) share the same bedroom and even the same dreams. What I found most endearing about this film is the incredibly detailed animation, especially the close-ups of these two characters where a raised eyebrow or a miniscule smirk can reveal thoughts and emotions. Also  the surrounding backgrounds and ancillary touches are superb.

 

The kids’ parents are voiced by Simu Liu as Michael and Cristin Milioti  as Jennifer. A character named Nightmara is voiced by Gia Carides and a beloved stuffed animal named Baloney Tony --- he spews slices of baloney from his mouth --- is voiced by veteran comic Craig Robinson. Another major character is called Sandman, voiced by Omid Djalili.

IN YOUR DREAMS is a deeply personal project for Woo whose parents separated when he was only six. Although they did get back together, the whole experience had a negative impact. It’s a story that Woo has wanted to put into movie form for a long time. In fact, from conception to final print took place over a period of 10 years.

There are many humorous moments, so many that Jeanne claims I was laughing throughout the entire movie. Without a doubt, I would say IN YOUR DREAMS is certainly well worth your time, and I will personally take a second look.

The film does not overstay its welcome at a crisp one hour and 26 minutes. Adults and children alike will revel in this film.

 

Available in limited theaters November 7th              and on Netflix on November 14, 2025

 

Opinion: See It Now!