Reviews

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  ★★★★ review by Matt Conway on Letterboxd

  "People can spend their whole lives trying to find that feeling, and in the end, they get it."

  I'll See You in My Dreams is the kind of surprise I love as a film fan. A movie I knew very little about aside from its cast, it was a pleasant surprise that this is probably one of my favorite films of the year.

  Unlike a lot of aging films, this one in particular has an honesty and genuineness that's hard to deny. The script's aimlessness works quite well, as it feels very life-like the way events happen to the character. The film has its fair share of laughs, but knows when to slow it down for more dramatic moments. Thankfully, the dramatic moments are handled with tenderness and subtlety, never feeling over-blown.

  Making this film shine is Blythe Danner, who gives an award worthy performance in the lead role. She develops great nuance with her character throughout, making her character truly come to life. It's a heartfelt and honest flick, that tackles aging in a way that all audiences can understand.

  PS. Martin Starr between this and Amira and Sam is doing a lot of interesting roles. He's one to watch

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  ★★★½ review by Jordan Rowe on Letterboxd

  Anchored by a nuanced central performance from Blythe Danner, "I'll See You in My Dreams" is a sharply-written slice of life with excellent performances and a well-realized emotional core that never once feels contrived.

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  ★★★½ review by Vincent Lao on Letterboxd

  A luminous Blythe Danner stars in this breezy, heartwarming drama from director Brett Haley who suffuses the film with an admirable sensitivity and honesty. The simplistic story of an old woman embracing life, aging, death, and finally falling in love again might sound as an odd, boring viewing for a 20 year old, well in fact, it’s not at all. The story is quite universal, and sincere about the issues not only involving the old but also about human relationships in general. There’s an underlying sadness to the film, yet the film has some hilarious and poignant moments that effectively balances the film's tone.

  Danner is radiant as ever, in a once in a blue moon central performance that is both heartwarming and beautiful. She commanded every scene and imbued such regality and warmth which is infectious. Surrounding her are gifted veteran actors with the likes of the hilarious June Squibb, Rhea Perlman, Martin Starr, (the ever slick) Sam Elliott who all provided great support for Danner. There’s nothing to complain about this film, other than its lighthearted material might be too odd for some viewers. I’ll See You In My Dreams is one rare gem with an older woman at the center of the story whose message transcends beautifully for all ages. Check this out.

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  ★★★½ review by Anna on Letterboxd

  2015 was the year of cougars named Carol.

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  ★★★★½ review by Dominique Mondon on Letterboxd

  Yo, Hollywood, put Martin Starr in more things. Thanks.

  Blythe Danner's performance is perfection - subtle, reserved, elegant, honest, and real. While the film isn't anything new, it takes on the themes of aging, inevitability of death, loss, and second chances with a refreshing and poignant honesty. It's understated and heartfelt. It's got the perfect balance of comedy and drama and is anchored by some incredible performances.

  Full video review: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-K69ItPqxG0

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