Backdrop preview Dreamland backdrop
Dreamland

Dreamland (2013)

Sep 28, 2013 1h 38m Drama

An affluent city is covered in snow, all seems perfect – on the surface. Divorcé Rolf is doing his best to rebuild his relationship with his daughter. Pregnant Lena appears to be living a faultless family life with her husband and son. Social worker Judith has a tough job and escapes it through her fantasies, whilst widowed Maria has finally built up the courage to invite her male acquaintance to a romantic dinner. In the course of one day, all of them will cross paths with the Bulgarian Mia, who works in the red-light trade and their seemingly perfect lives will never be the same…

Directed by Petra Biondina Volpe

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Petra Biondina Volpe
Writer
  • Petra Biondina Volpe

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Dreamland examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Petra Biondina Volpe brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2013, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Dreamland took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 2328 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2013, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Dreamland shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Frühstück mit einer Unbekannten, which focuses more on action than character development, Dreamland offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Mutants and Earth explore similar territory, Dreamland stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: September 28, 2013
  • Runtime: 1h 38m

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