Watch I Dream Too Much

I Dream Too Much is a 2015 coming-of-age film that centers around a young woman named Dora (played by Eden Brolin) who is struggling to find her place in the world after graduating from college. Unlike her successful and put-together best friend and roommate, Abby (played by Chelsea Lopez), Dora is unsure of what she wants to do with her life and is hesitant to take any real steps towards adulthood.

In an attempt to figure things out, Dora agrees to spend the summer as a caretaker for her great aunt Vera (played by Diane Ladd) in upstate New York. Though initially resistant to the idea, Dora soon finds herself settling into the slow-paced, idyllic lifestyle of the rural community where Vera lives. She spends her days taking long walks, reading books, and admiring the local flora and fauna.

As she adjusts to her new surroundings, Dora also finds herself becoming reacquainted with her love of writing - something she had let fall by the wayside during her years in college. Encouraged by the town librarian, Dora begins to jot down her thoughts and observations in a journal, finding solace and purpose in the act of putting pen to paper.

Despite her newfound sense of direction, Dora's summer isn't without its challenges. Along with navigating the complexities of her family's history (including her strained relationship with her mother and Vera's long-held grudges), Dora must also contend with the arrival of a charming local boy, Frank (played by James McCaffrey), who threatens to distract her from her goals.

As the summer draws to a close and Dora prepares to return to the real world, she must decide whether to embrace the life that awaits her back in the city, or to stay and continue to chart her own path in the rural paradise she's grown to love.

Directed by first-time filmmaker Katie Cokinos, I Dream Too Much is a thoughtful meditation on the difficulties of finding one's way in the world, and the importance of taking risks and following one's passions. The film is anchored by a strong performance from Brolin, who captures the uncertainty and vulnerability of her character with grace and nuance.

Lopez is also excellent as Abby, who serves as a necessary counterweight to Dora's introspection and self-doubt. Though their friendship is often strained by Dora's insecurities, the two actresses share a convincing chemistry that brings their dynamic to life.

Meanwhile, Ladd brings a warmth and depth to the character of Vera, who serves as both the source of Dora's inspiration and her greatest challenge. McCaffrey is also well-cast as Frank, managing to be both charming and enigmatic in equal measure.

Aesthetically, the film is a visual treat, with lush cinematography capturing the natural beauty of the upstate New York setting. The soundtrack - featuring a mix of indie folk and classic jazz - is also a standout, adding to the film's dreamy, wistful tone.

Overall, I Dream Too Much is a charming and heartfelt film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or uncertain about their path in life. With its relatable characters, poignant storytelling, and gorgeous visuals, it's a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.

I Dream Too Much is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.2.