Writing a Dream — The Secret Behind the Most Iconic Dream Sequences

Movies Dream Sequence — We take a look at how to write a dream in movies.

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Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Dreams in Film
01:04 - Cinematic Dreams Defined
03:01 - Chapter 1: Characterization
06:18 - Chapter 2: Narrative Function
10:48 - Chapter 3: Formatting
15:26 - Takeaways

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FILM DREAM SEQUENCE

We all dream (whether or not we remember it), and so it should come as no surprise that since the beginning of cinema, filmmakers have been depicting their characters' dreams. The nature of dreams allow filmmakers to experiment and push boundaries, resulting in some dream sequences becoming some of the most iconic cinematic moments of all time. Like with pretty much any other scene, dream sequences start on the page. So how do you write a dream sequence?

WRITING A DREAM SEQUENCE FOR CHARACTER

When writing a dream to explore characterization, it’s important to ask what the core of your character is: what are their wants? Their fears? A dream can externalize internal conflict, revealing insecurities, suppressed desires, or lingering guilt. Focus on emotional logic rather than narrative logic. How the dream feels is usually more important than what it means in a literal sense. A well-written dream sequence typically leaves the audience with a clearer sense of who the character is, even if the dream itself is abstract.

MOVIE DREAM SEQUENCES FOR NARRATIVE

Dreams can also be used to push the narrative forward. In some instances, dreams are used to deliver warnings, unlock repressed memories, or provide a thematic mirror to the main plot. Alternatively, dream might more subtly influence a character’s decisions or offer them new information. A dream that drives the story forward or reframes it will feel integrated and purposeful, rather than like a detour.

DREAM SCREENPLAY FORMAT

In terms of screenwriting, there is no one way to format a dream. Most screenwriters indicate the start of a dream with a note in the scene heading. It’s usually good practice to make the transition into and out of the dream as clear as possible, so the viewer and production team know where the dream begins and ends. But this isn't always the case— if you don't want a scene to be obviously a dream at first for the audience, then don't make it obvious until after the fact.

When used well, a dream sequence blends experimentation and narrative storytelling to create something unforgettable.


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♬ SONGS USED:

“Just Dropped In” - Kenny Rogers
“Exit Strategy” - Alternate Endings
“Dreams” - The Cranberries
“The Pull of Regret” - Elliot Goldenthal
“Walter Time” - Theodore Shapiro
“Bad Dreams” - James Horner
“Dark Discovery” - James Horner
“A Cool Dad” - Owen Pallett
“A Marvel” - Carter Burwell
“Twin Peaks” - Angelo Badalamenti
“Dreams” - Beck
“Attack on Murron” - James Horner
“Misirlou” - Dick Dale
“A Word of Explanation” - Elmer Bernstein
“Hardest Geometry Problem in the World” - Mark Mothersbaugh
“Birds of Prey” - Daniel Pemberton
“Dracula Hypnotizes Mina” - Hummie Man
“Inception” - Hans Zimmer
“Kimble in the River” - James Newton Howard
“Alex’s Revelation” - Shirley Walker
“Clown Dream” - Danny Elfman

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