This content of this post originally appeared in the “JNL” section of the Janesville Gazette.
“What Dreams May Come” combines the acting talents of Robin Williams and Cuba Gooding Jr. with amazing scenery and astounding special effects. When you add in the clever writing and spiritual lessons, it factors up to a remarkable movie.
The story is about two soul mates, Chris (Williams) and Annie (Annabella Sciorra). They marry, have two kids, Marie and lan, and become successful. Tragedy strikes when their children are killed in a car crash. Then Chris is killed when he tries to help the victims of another car crash.
Chris discovers that his heaven is inside one of the beautiful paintings created by his wife. Albert (Gooding) is his spirit guide and shows him around. Chris discovers that everything in heaven is directed by his thoughts.
After seeking out his children, he learns that his wife has committed suicide. At first he is happy because he thinks he will finally be with her. But Albert informs him that suicides can’t forgive themselves and can’t go to heaven. Chris, who is known for never giving up, goes on a journey to the depths of hell to rescue Annie, his soul mate.
Max Von Sydow (“The Exorcist”) also contributes first-rate acting as the Tracker, the person who accompanies Chris on his journey.
The title of the movie comes from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”: “To sleep, perchance to dream for in that sleep of death what dreams may come must give us pause.” Another quote that describes the whole movie is from the poet Dylan Thomas, who, drawing from the Bible, wrote “And death shall have no dominion.”
My only criticism is that most of the scenes of the underworld may be too frightening for some people. The movie shows exactly how many people think of hell, complete with fire and brimstone.
“What Dreams May Come” is the best example of stunning visual effects combined with acting and writing that actually makes you think. it excites your mind and shows you that the little things you don’t often think about can mean a lot.