At the Berlin International Film Festival, Jessica Chastain and Mexican director Michel Franco present Dreams, a compelling tale of love, power, and cultural tensions. The film, in competition for the Golden Bear, delves into a passionate but doomed affair that serves as a metaphor for the complex relationship between Mexico and the United States.
'Love, hate, and violence intertwine in Dreams, Michel Franco’s latest film in contention for the Berlinale’s top honor. Featuring Jessica Chastain in a powerful lead role, the film explores the deep fractures in a love story spanning Mexico and the United States, reflecting broader political and social realities.
Like Bong Joon-Ho’s satirical sci-fi comedy Mickey 17, which critiques space colonization and transhumanism, Dreamsresonates strongly with today’s political climate, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s return to the White House. The opening scene, set inside a packed migrant truck headed for the U.S., sets the tone for a gripping, thought-provoking narrative.
Known for his dark and intense storytelling (After Lucia, New Order), Michel Franco makes his Berlinale competition debut with this romantic tragedy rooted in themes of dominance and manipulation.
Jessica Chastain portrays Jennifer, a wealthy American heiress with progressive ideals, living in Los Angeles. While her father and brother handle the family business, she dedicates herself to philanthropy, supporting young dancers in Mexico. During her frequent trips south of the border, she embarks on a passionate affair with Fernando, a rising ballet star played by Isaac Hernández, a celebrated Mexican dancer recently appointed as a principal at the American Ballet Theatre.
However, when Fernando illegally crosses into the U.S. to be with Jennifer, their love story takes a dramatic turn, disrupting her privileged existence and forcing them to confront the stark realities of their worlds.
As the title suggests, the film revolves around dreams—those of Mexican migrants, of an American woman who believes love can transcend borders and social class, and of the shared yet fragile "American dream."
A Bold, Provocative Perspective
"Jennifer leads two separate lives—one in Mexico and one in the U.S. For her, it’s a perfect balance. But when Fernando arrives, everything collapses, and that’s when things get interesting. They truly love each other, which makes the film tragic," explained Michel Franco during the press conference.
Their tumultuous love-hate relationship mirrors the complex dynamic between Mexico and its northern neighbor. "As Mexicans, we grow up watching how the U.S.-Mexico relationship unfolds," noted Franco. "It’s complicated—we need each other, yet we hurt and exploit one another. And, to put it bluntly, one of the two countries is literally above the other."
Jessica Chastain, who boldly embraces the film’s intimate scenes, praises the director’s daring approach. "He doesn’t dictate what’s right or wrong—he makes people think and debate," said the 47-year-old actress.
"For years, I’ve fought for truly complex female roles. In Hollywood, female characters have often existed just to support the story. I want to play characters who make mistakes—whether audiences love them or not, I don’t care. I want them to feel real and human," she emphasized.
Dreams marks the second collaboration between Franco and Chastain, following Memory, which also starred Peter Sarsgaard. Beyond acting, Chastain serves as a co-producer on Dreams, further shaping its narrative and vision.
"At this point in my career, I have influence over the stories I choose to tell," she stated. "I no longer feel the need to please anyone. In fact, I’d rather not—it’s more exciting and interesting that way. Clearly, I’m more rebellious than when I started!"
With AFP
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