Dreamworld

Dreamworld is a captivating indie drama romance from 2012, set in Los Angeles, against the backdrop of the animation industry. The movie invites the audience on an introspective journey into the life of a young dreamer named Oliver. Directed by Ryan Darst, it stars the talented Whit Hertford, Mary Kate Wiles, and Nora Kirkpatrick, who together breathe life, depth, and palpability into their respective roles, seamlessly navigating through the plot's highs and lows, which are filled with reality checks and whimsical dreams.

The story revolves around Oliver Hayes, played by Whit Hertford, an aspiring animator whose life is far from his dreams. He works a demanding 9-to-5 tech support job, which barely funds his life. Every spare moment is spent immersed in sketching animations for his dream project - a whimsical quest of love and adventure - a stark contrast to his real-life which is devoid of such excitements. His artistic aspirations often clash with the harsh realities of his mediocre life, creating a profound sense of conflict within him.

When his reality can't get any more frustrating, he meets fascinating and free-spirited Lily Blush, played by Mary Kate Wiles. Lily embodies everything Oliver's life lacks - excitement, adventure, and most importantly, passion. Creating a spark in Oliver's life, she becomes the muse for his artwork. As we follow their blossoming romance, the audience is treated to a dreamlike narrative rich in eclectic humor, complimented by a charming chemistry between Hertford and Wiles.

Then there's Oliver's wise and grounded older sister, Joy, portrayed by Nora Kirkpatrick. A voice of reason in the whirlwind of Oliver's life, she demonstrates a caring yet scathingly honest outlook on her brother's high aspirations versus his actual life. The complex relationship dynamics between the siblings adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative, making it relatable for viewers who have felt the tug of war between familial obligations and personal dreams.

The picturesque city of Los Angeles serves as a backdrop to Oliver's story. The city's distinct and vibrant vibe reflects the spirit of its young inhabitants while also highlighting the high zingy aspirations versus the sometimes dulcet reality of their lives. The cinematography effectively captures the beauty of the city and its ambivalence, mirroring Oliver's personal emotional journey.

Dreamworld is not just about love and dreams alone; it depicts the stark contrast between fantasy and reality. It stands out in its exploration of the human capacity for aspiration and the harsh realities that often encase the dreams. The film's real merit lies in the fact that even among all the dreamy aspirations, never once does it leave the footing of reality, keeping the character arcs and plot progression grounded and believable.

As much as it is about dreams and heartaches, the film makes an impressive attempt to reveal the world of animation, brought to life vividly through Oliver's character. It not only reflects the effort that goes into creating art, but also the inspiration and disappointment that come along the journey.

Sound plays a potent role in setting the film’s emotional rhythm. The sound score beautifully brackets each scene, masterfully accentuating the moment's feeling – whether it's the high of a dream, the heartache of a disappointment, the whispery butterflies of new love, or the silent comfort of a shared familial relationship.

Whit Hertford’s performance as Oliver Hayes is remarkably sincere, brilliantly managing to create a character that, despite his flaws, manages to resonate with the audience, making them root for him in his endeavors. Mary Kate Wiles delivers a solid performance, making Lily both otherworldly yet profoundly real, perfectly personifying Oliver's dream world. Nora Kirkpatrick does an excellent job as Joy, adding layers of character depth through her realistic and heartfelt performance.

In conclusion, Dreamworld is a unique montage of aspirations and reality, dialing into animation's creative world while navigating through human emotions like love, dream, disappointment, and resilience. It's a stunning exploration of how dreams can intertwine with reality, making for a viewing experience that is as delightful as it is introspective.