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Pixar Alum's Directorial Debut 'In Your Dreams' Blends Reality and Fantasy
15 Nov
Summary
- Director Alex Woo's personal childhood experience inspired the film
- 'In Your Dreams' follows siblings navigating a fantastical dream world
- Animated feature blends realistic elements with imaginative dream sequences
Two days ago, the Netflix animated feature 'In Your Dreams' premiered, marking the directorial debut of Pixar alum Alex Woo. The film follows a pair of young siblings, Stevie and Elliot, as they navigate a fantastical dream world in search of the mythical Sandman, hoping he can help fix their family's troubles.
Woo's personal childhood experience served as the inspiration for the film. When he was 6 or 7 years old, Woo woke up one morning to find his mother packing her bags to leave, gently explaining to him and his brother that she was going away to "figure out things for our family." This formative moment became the emotional core of 'In Your Dreams,' as the siblings in the film learn their parents' marriage is under strain.
To bring the dream world to life, Woo collaborated closely with production designer Steve Pilcher. The team grounded the fantastical elements, like flying beds and animated breakfasts, in realistic details from Woo's own childhood, such as visits to Chuck E. Cheese and the Disney ride 'It's a Small World.' This blend of the real and the imaginary creates a visually striking and emotionally resonant animated feature.
