Nightmarish cringe: A review of ‘Dreams’

Published March 6, 2026 4:57am ET



Time can move pretty slowly in dreams, but seldom as slowly as in the consistently interminable, periodically risible new movie Dreams. In an unlikely melding of genres, the movie seeks to combine the genres of an immigration expose, an erotic thriller, and a behind-the-scenes ballet drama. Jessica Chastain stars as Jennifer, a well-heeled San Franciscan who dabbles in running her family’s foundation, usurping U.S. immigration laws, and pursuing really unhealthy personal relationships. Isaac Hernandez plays Fernando, the Mexican dancer who, upon entering the country illegally, falls into Jennifer’s high-toned orbit. 

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