A Movie Lovers Review of What Dreams May Come

As an avid moviegoer, I love to have movies touch my heart or open my eyes. One film capable of this, and my favorite film, is 'What Dreams May Come'. This 1998 film was directed by Vincent Ward, based on the 1978 novel by Richard Matheson. Starring Robin Williams, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Annabella Sciora. The title is based on Hamlet while the plot is reflective of Dante's Divine Comedy.

Chris is a pediatrician who has a wife and 2 children. Their children pass away in an accident and Chris soon passes away in another accident. The story is about Chris experiences with Heaven and his journey to Hell to save his one true love.

The most amazing element of this film lies in the visual design. In no other film have I seen heaven portrayed with such beauty and vivid color. A common theme is that Heaven is what you would like it to be, and the film plays on this point. The colors that are utilized and the general feeling that is established as Chris learns more about heaven and what it means are truly amazing. The same goes for all areas of the film. The visual effects, which won an Oscar as well as a nomination for Art Direction, are far and away the most captivating that I have ever experienced. You do not see the different setting, but you glean feeling from them.

This movie does delves into the nature of loss, death, coping, and the limits of both suffering and love. Chris's journey to save his true love is one that all of us can relate too. Robin Williams does such and amazing job within this film of running the gamete of human emotion within his character. While nominated for an Oscar for his role, he was not nominated. I feel that this is truly the pinnacle of Robin Williams acting career, and truly shows the power of this former Julliard student. Cuba Gooding Jr. play his guide and imagining of his best friend and son, and must also be applauded for a beautiful performance, netting him an Image Award and Blockbuster Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Overall this film touches upon the human emotions of loss, love, and our envisionment of heaven and hell alike. Visual perfection and amazing performances work to paint such a rich beautiful picture that we must all analyze our heart, lives, and our dreams.

This film can be found at a great bargain at the following sites (links attached):

http://www.amazon.com

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=2385156

http://www.buy.com/prod/what-dreams-may-come/q/loc/322/40175030.html

Please go out an enjoy this amazing testament to the power of film. While you're at it, read the book as well!