Chastain, Hernández Ignite Erotic Drama 'Dreams'

Jessica Chastain delivers a daring performance in Michel Franco's "Dreams," an erotic thriller examining power, obsession, art, and immigration. The film centers on Jennifer, a San Francisco socialite, and her passionate affair with Fernando, a talented Mexican ballet dancer played by Isaac Hernández. Their relationship is portrayed through shifting power dynamics, reflecting broader themes of U.S.-Mexico relations.

The narrative begins with Fernando's arduous journey as a migrant, highlighting his determination to reach San Francisco. Upon arrival, he unexpectedly re-enters Jennifer's life, revealing a shared history connected to her work with a dance foundation in Mexico. The film intricately contrasts the lives of the wealthy elite with invisible workers.

Fernando's presence becomes Jennifer's secret, complicated by societal expectations and her father's influence. After he disappears and later reappears as a rising star in the ballet company, their relationship faces further scrutiny. Escalating tensions, particularly when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement intervenes, lead to a dramatic reunion in Mexico, where their desires clash with dire consequences.