Feature Film Review: ECHOES OF DREAMS. Directed by Vanessa Mariveles

Reyna, a struggling DJ in Silicon Valley, has to pivot her career in order to survive. Having the worst year ever, she is forced to join the “gig economy” so she can pay rent while living with her pushy mother. While dating women for the first time, she finds herself in comical situations. Through determination, self-discovery, and the power of faith, Reyna learns to overcome adversity and finds her true calling and love.

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Review by Julie C. Sheppard:

This feature, Echoes of Dreams, was a moving exploration of how hard work, persistence and the support of a loved one can allow for dreams to become a reality. Across the board, the performances of the cast were true to life. The awkwardness of the lead’s initial failures both professionally and socially was believably painful. The added frustration of constant parental pressure to succeed made the lead’s desperation even more dire.  Another hardship was the lead’s exposure to a lover whose family’s homophobia would demand their lesbian relationship be a secret forever. In contrast, the depiction of the joy and freedom between the lovers Reyna and Tiya was heartwarming.

The pulsing soundtrack and stirring vocals below textless scenes of either frustration or sensual passion (enriched with erotic slo-mo camera shots) worked seamlessly. Various dating locations were well-selected, such as a bike path, a bowling alley, restaurants, an inviting couch and a comfortable bedroom. The screenplay was sensitive and thoughtful, as the central relationship was rich in caring, trust and support, which allowed for Reyna’s character arc – moving from failure to success in both work and love. Reyna’s dreams were no longer just distant echoes, but now were tangible and real.

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