A star-studded cast is bringing a uniquely realistic animated family to life in the new film “In Your Dreams.” Marvel’s Simu Liu and Emmy winner Cristin Milioti voice a couple whose marriage is on the rocks, providing the central conflict for this adventure-comedy. The Netflix film, which also hits theaters Friday, follows their two children as they try to magically save their parents’ relationship.
This raw, honest portrayal of family life is what attracted its stars. Simu Liu, famous for “Shang-Chi,” said he was fascinated by the chance to show a family that argues. He criticized the common media portrayal of “always happy” families as “just not true,” emphasizing the need for kids to see “families that aren’t perfect.” Liu’s commitment to this authentic depiction forms the emotional backbone of his character.
Cristin Milioti, a Grammy winner for the musical “Once,” brings her own acclaimed talents to the role of the Mom. A highlight for Milioti was recording a duet with Liu. She described the song, which shows the strained couple in a rare moment of harmony, as a “really great” and “beautiful moment in the film.” This musical interlude provides a powerful contrast to the conflict that drives the children’s quest.
The story is seen through the eyes of the children, Stevie (Jolie Hoang-Rappaport) and Elliot (Elias Janssen). Desperate to keep their family together, they journey in search of The Sandman. They are joined by a stuffed animal, Baloney Tony, hilariously voiced by “The Office” alum Craig Robinson. The film, directed by Pixar veteran Alex Woo (“Ratatouille,” “WALL·E”), blends this fantastical quest with grounded emotional stakes.
Ultimately, the film is about the children’s emotional journey. Hoang-Rappaport explained that her character, Stevie, must learn a difficult lesson: “there is no magic solution to real-life problems.” The film’s message is clear: fixing a family takes more than a dream. It’s a mature and necessary message wrapped in the vibrant animation of Sony Pictures Imageworks.