Dream a Little Dream (released in theaters on March 3, 1989) is perhaps the most enigmatic and visually ambitious entry in the “Two Coreys” filmography. Far removed from the straightforward teen comedies of the era, this film operates with the logic of a fever dream, blending body-swap fantasy with a stylized, neon-soaked aesthetic.
It is a movie that prioritizes atmosphere and movement over traditional narrative structure, resulting in a surrealist meditation on youth and second chances that remains a fascinating anomaly of late-80s cinema.
The story centers on the elderly Coleman Ettinger (Jason Robards) and his wife Gena (Piper Laurie), a couple obsessed with a transcendental meditation experiment designed to allow them to live forever in their dreams.
During a botched attempt at this metaphysical leap, an accident in their backyard results in Coleman’s consciousness being transferred into the body of a local teenager, Bobby Keller (Corey Feldman).
Meanwhile, Gena’s spirit becomes trapped in the subconscious of Bobby’s dream girl, Lainie Diamond (Meredith Salenger).
Bobby – now inhabited by the dignified, jazz-loving Coleman – must navigate the treacherous social waters of high school while trying to convince his best friend, Dinger (Corey Haim), that he isn’t crazy.
The plot is further complicated by the presence of Ike Baker (Harry Dean Stanton), Coleman’s eccentric friend who is the only one who understands the spiritual crisis at hand.
As “Bobby” tries to win Lainie’s heart and find a way to reverse the process, the film delves into elaborate dance sequences and philosophical musings, building toward a climax where the characters must decide if they truly want to wake up or stay lost in a perfect, youthful dream.
William McNamara, Susan Blakely, Alex Rocco, Victoria Jackson and Matt Adler round out the cast.
Meredith Salenger in Dream a Little Dream (Photo/Vestron Pictures)
Reception for Dream a Little Dream
Dream a Little Dream grossed $2.6 million on its opening weekend, finishing fifth at the box office.
The film would gross $5.6 million in its theatrical run.
A direct to video sequel, Dream a Little Dream 2, was released in 1995.
Legacy
The legacy of Dream a Little Dream lies in its status as the peak of “Corey-mania,” marking the height of the cultural collaboration between Feldman and Haim.
While critics were initially baffled by its non-linear style and arthouse aspirations, the film has aged into a beloved cult classic.
It is celebrated for its eclectic soundtrack featuring the iconic Michael Damian cover of the title track and for its surprisingly deep bench of veteran acting talent.
The film’s legacy also persists as a time capsule of 80s “cool,” from the oversized blazers and “shufflin'” dance moves to the ethereal cinematography.
Dream a Little Dream stands as a testament to a time when teen movies were allowed to be weird, experimental, and unashamedly romantic, proving that even a “body-swap” movie can have the soul of a poet.
