Common Sense Media Review
By Fernanda Camargo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Engaging series has complex characters, heart, mild peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Dream Productions
What's the Story?
Paula Persimmon was once the star director of DREAM PRODUCTIONS, the studio responsible for creating and broadcasting Riley's dreams every night. As Riley grows into a tweenager, Paula struggles to maintain her relevance. When a studio restructure threatens her job, she sees her right-hand assistant Janelle promoted to her competition. This means she has to work with Xeni, a smug indie prodigy who dismisses all of Paula's ideas. After a few mishaps lead to dreams turning into nightmares, Riley's self-confidence is shattered and Paula's job is on the line. They must find a way to work together—or is it the end of a dream?
Is It Any Good?
Pixar doesn't miss a beat with this remarkable series that's unique, engaging entertainment for the whole family. As we learned from the universe of Inside Out, Dream Productions takes complex mind processes and turns them into relatable characters and easy-to-understand stories about our innermost struggles. There are many clever references to the world of filmmaking, both in the setting and the humor. Some of these jokes might go over the heads of younger kids, but that doesn't mean they won't enjoy the show. Kids who are curious about how movies are made will find it especially appealing, but it really is good fun for everyone.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the setting of Dream Productions and how it relates to making movies in real life. What do you know about production? What parts of the show do you think can be true and what do you think is made up?
Paula, Janette, and Xeni are all very creative in different ways. How do their roles at the end of the show fit their personalities better?
Do you remember your dreams? Have you ever had a dream help you understand your feelings or make a decision?
Do you think your dreams have scripts too, or are the directors in your mind free to do as they please?
TV Details
- Premiere date : December 11, 2024
- Cast : Paula Pell , Kensington Tallman , Ally Maki , Richard Ayoade
- Network : Disney+
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship , School ( Middle School )
- Character Strengths : Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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