Backdrop preview The Man Who Stole Dreams backdrop
The Man Who Stole Dreams

The Man Who Stole Dreams (1987)

Jan 01, 1987 11m Animation Fantasy

A man steals the dreams of innocent villagers and tries to sell them back to the townsfolk.

Directed by Joyce Borenstein

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Joyce Borenstein
Writer
  • Barbara Taylor

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

The Man Who Stole Dreams represents a fascinating example of Animation/Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Joyce Borenstein 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1987, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Man Who Stole Dreams took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 11 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 37 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The costume department created over 182 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1987, when this film was released:
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike The Chipmunk Adventure, which focuses more on action than character development, The Man Who Stole Dreams subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Blood and Chocolate and Pet Sematary explore similar territory, The Man Who Stole Dreams stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

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: January 1, 1987
  • Runtime: 11m