Nicolas Cage gives a dream-level performance in the imaginative Dream Scenario, a movie that for a while transcends reality until its nightmarish third act sets in.
Kristoffer Borgli writes and directs the picture, which is about a boring, nobody of a college professor who finds himself at the center of worldwide fame and attention after a phenomenon sets in where a significant portion of the population begins to have vivid dreams involving him. What ensues strains his career, marriage, and family.
A clever takedown of cancel culture masquerading as something else (until Borgli literally starts talking about cancel culture), Dream Scenario is an absolutely invigorating piece of filmmaking–until it isn’t. The first act is absolutely stellar, the second act solid. The concept is fascinating, and Borgli executes it wonderfully (the dream sequences are fun to watch). Furthermore, Cage is at the top of his game here, delivering the exasperated, eccentric kind of performance he is uniquely capable of delivering; it’s an award-worthy turn.
Unfortunately, Borgli runs out of ideas in the third act. Or he at least loses sight of what makes his movie so good in the first place. Dream Scenario’s closing act starts to feel unintentionally nightmarish, especially in the film’s final 15 minutes. Borgli jumps into cheap sequel territory before his original is even finished; it feels like a different movie, and simply doesn’t work. Though the third act has some strong moments, there are some parts I actively hated.
The full package falls short of greatness, but there’s too much to like here not to recommend it. Cage is amazing, and for well over an hour Borgli delivers one of the most captivating movies of the year. Such a shame he couldn’t close it out.
Review by Erik Samdahl unless otherwise indicated.