Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Kids face peril, learn positive lessons in animated tale.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
In Your Dreams
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 15 parent reviews
Parents say this movie may not be appropriate for young children due to its disturbing themes and imagery, which can be upsetting for sensitive viewers. However, many find it adorable, funny, and heartwarming, appealing to both children and adults, albeit with some complex themes and occasional intense moments that may require parental guidance.
- inappropriate for young
- heartwarming
- complex themes
- sensitive imagery
- parental guidance
- family friendly
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 7 kid reviews
What's the Story?
Stevie (voiced by Jolie Hoang-Rappaport) realizes there are cracks in her beloved parents' relationship in IN YOUR DREAMS. Her mom (Cristin Milioti) is applying for a job out of town to help cover the family's expenses, while her dad (Simu Liu) tries to complete a long-gestating musical album. Stevie is trying everything she can to keep her family together, so when her little brother, Elliot (Elias Janssen), finds a mysterious book that promises to help make dreams come true, she thinks she's found the answer. Instead, the book sends her and Elliot into increasingly confusing dreams where they must face their hopes, fears, and the future—together.
Is It Any Good?
Charming characters, imaginative scenarios, and positive lessons make this animated romp from former Pixar filmmakers Alex Woo and Erik Benson an engaging watch. Younger brother Elliot's priceless facial gestures are a highlight of In Your Dreams, as he goes from annoying foil to vital partner for big sis Stevie. Visually elaborate designs for their dreamscapes match the characters' increasingly complex emotions, handled with tact and from a child's perspective but still broaching real-life dilemmas both kids and adults may recognize. Fueling the action is an orchestral score punctuated by familiar rock tunes. If the film feels familiar, that's OK—let yourself drift into the dreams, and enjoy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what Stevie and Elliot learn about themselves and their family relationships in In Your Dreams.
What is lucid dreaming? Have you heard of this before? Would you be tempted to try it? Where can you find out more about it?
How would you describe the music in this film? Did you recognize any of the songs?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : November 14, 2025
- Cast : Simu Liu , Jolie Hoang-Rappaport , Elias Janssen
- Directors : Erik Benson , Alexander Woo
- Inclusion Information : Asian Movie Director(s) , Chinese Movie Director(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Multiracial Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories
- Character Strengths : Teamwork
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic content, scary images, action/peril and some rude humor
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : February 5, 2026
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