Search - Just a Dream on DVD

A Nice Coming of Age Story

V. Marshall | North Fork, CA USA | 08/12/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Danny Glover directs this film about a young boy growing up in Dayton, Ohio during the 1960's.

A young boy finds himself struggling with his youthful innocence and the sins of adulthood. His father, (Robbie Benson), and his mother, (Ally Sheedy) have a relationship that is falling apart. Benson is the town doctor and apparently he has a few activities on the side that take him away from his family. In search of a father figure the young boy befriends an African American man who has a crush on Marilyn Monroe and a Native American bartender who offers up a bit of wise advice and hope every now and then. Both men teach the boy about life and the struggles of right and wrong. Another influence in the boy's life is a strong woman (Amy Madigan) who owns the bar that the boy works for. Surrounded by the arms of these unlikely friends the boy grows into a wise and happy soul. The writing is well done and most of the characters rich with meaning.

The best part of this film has to do with the fantasy as it revolves around Marilyn Monroe. The dreams of the characters seem somehow distant and unobtainable, just like those in reality, but when some dreams finally come true the scenes are absolutely touching. This film is a true sleeper, lost somehow in the shuffle but well worth its weight in gold. The story is inspirational in a softly portrayed way showing us that sometimes life is more than just another dream.
"

Small town dreams

Terry Goldman | Kents Store, VA USA | 11/28/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"An excellent small film with a very strong performance by Carl
Lumbly and extended cameos by Amy Madigan and in a negative role as the philandering Father/Doctor, a too long missing from feature films, Robby Benson.Another in a long line of "summer coming of age films," showcasing a small town (Nevada) twelve year old who gets a part time job in a local saloon. Befriended by a wise mechanic (African American wonderfully portrayed by Lumbly), and a wise cracking bartender ( a Native American); the film centers on the boy who (entering the seventh grade) is forced to grow up admidst parents who are unable to communicate and surrogate adults who are wise, tolerant, and nuturing.Learning to drive and realize dreams is a wonderful sub plot.Well crafted and highly recommended. A Showtime film for television."

Superb Film !!!!!!

D. ward | Portland, OR USA | 03/23/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an excellent film. I really enjoyed it. The story is amazing, the acting is amazing, etc. Jeremy Sumpter is an excellent actor and this film really lets him shine. Danny Glover's directing is right on and enjoyable. I highly recommend this movie for everyone of all ages. See it you won't be disappointed."