Director/Writer/Producer/Narrator Jackson Cooperman gives us a must see film; Daydream. It has The Wonder Year and The Waltons vibes. Almost as if the two show’s have a baby.
*Side Note: I loved the narration so much on this one that I had to triple check the credits. In my humble opinion, Cooperman sounds amazingly like Daniel Stern. Yes, he of Home Alone fame. Listening to both narratives though, I found that Cooperman just “felt” like Stern. It is the same type of delivery; sans the overt humour. It works. Mainly because the narration feels familiar. Sorry, the long side note is over, back to the review.*
It is this feel of familiarity that drops us comfortably into the “extended” tale of Nick, his teacher and his dad. Cooperman’s decision to give a couple of intentional “nods” to this type of format hooks us almost immediately. *Short Side Note: If you skipped the Margaret Mitchell side note above, go back and read it. I’ll wait. Pinky promise.*
The Daydream Story
Nick’s dream is to become a writer. He is forever scribbling. He foregoes the use of a typewriter or cursive writing. His teacher Ms Aimette gives the writing class an assignment. She wants the students to write about people who have influenced them.
This project requires all the participants to daydream. Thus begins a short odyssey of discovery for Nick, his dad; Frank and, it seems, the teacher as well.
The Main Cast
Maura Aimette plays herself as Nick’s teacher.
Kieran Patrick is Nick.
Kevin C. Carr is Frank.
A Word About the Youngsters
All of the kids in the classroom scenes felt pretty real. Most importantly, they look like 11 year old children. There is none of the actor/actress being in their early 20’s malarkey. Daydream feels as authentic as its metaphorical “parents.” The casting works, pardon the pun, like a dream.
About The Daydream Casting
The three main players stand out. Kieran is completely believable as the socially awkward; by choice, budding writer. Ms Aimette is natural and manages the almost insurmountable stress of portraying herself. Mr Carr is almost mesmerizing as the isolated dad.
*Last Side Note: (I promise.) If anyone ever decides to make a bio about the late Brian Keith; Carr should be the choice. He looks enough like the late actor that I made the connection almost automatically.*
The only problem I had with the entire atmosphere of the story was that it felt older than 2008. Although, it has to be said, this actually helps. Looking back at my 11 year old school days, I could see faces that reminded me of my old schoolmates. Once again, this is most likely down to the casting.
Behind the Camera
Cooperman’s team is top notch. Anthony Fuscaldo, and Itamar Erez give us a score that also feels familiar, yet different. Cinematographer Brian Wennersten, who filmed the main bits in just four eight hour days, puts this together very well. [Production Notes] Rob Ciano and Cooperman were the 2nd Unit cinematographers; they put together the interview segments. Cooperman also edits the entire thing together, quite well.
Daydream Works
In some ways, the 70 minute film feels like a kindred spirit to The Bigfoot Club (2025). Both films feature someone remembering significant childhood events, after the fact. They are both ‘Feel Good’ films.
After watching either film, one feels; satisfied, nostalgic, and thoughtful. As Daydream is set entirely in the “real world” events of 2008, you take away an urge to watch the film again. I found myself thinking of favourite teachers in my schools. This allowed me to remember those folks who influenced my life.
Jackson Cooperman reveals via his Director’s Statement that the film is “semi-autobiographical.” He also states that his purpose was to appeal to younger and older audiences. As an “older” member of that demographic I can say that Mr Cooperman succeeds in his goal.
The Verdict
Daydream is a solid 5 out of 5 stars. It delivers. Any minute shortfalls, aka; plot holes, alter nothing in the story. This dramedy centric coming of age tale is superb. The excellent script, story, delivery and feel all combine to make this a fun and enjoyable experience. The film opened back in May for the festival circuit. These types of films are a perfect example of what hooked me on Indie films. We cannot wait to see Jackson’s next offering.
The Trailer
