Erotic Thriller 'Dreams' Explores Immigration, Sex, and Power Dynamics

Jessica Chastain stars as a San Francisco socialite in a torrid affair with a Mexican ballet dancer, played by Isaac Hernández.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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In the erotic thriller 'Dreams,' Jessica Chastain plays Jennifer, a wealthy San Francisco socialite who becomes entangled in a tempestuous affair with a talented Mexican ballet dancer, Fernando, played by Isaac Hernández. The film creatively explores themes of U.S. relations with Mexican immigrants through the ever-shifting power dynamics between the two leads, culminating in a sinister conclusion as Jennifer tries to keep Fernando in Mexico while he fights to return to the U.S.

Why it matters

The film offers a nuanced look at the complex issues surrounding immigration and the exploitation of undocumented workers, while also delving into themes of obsession, art, and the abuse of power within intimate relationships.

The details

After illegally entering the U.S. by hiding in a semi-truck, Fernando makes his way to San Francisco and insinuates himself into Jennifer's luxurious home and life. Their passionate, feral affair continues in private, but Jennifer hides Fernando from her family and social circle. When Fernando decides he's had enough of the secrecy, he finds success dancing with the San Francisco Ballet on his own merits, only to be detained by ICE. The power dynamics shift further as the two reunite in Mexico, with Jennifer wanting to keep Fernando there as her plaything.

  • Fernando illegally enters the U.S. by hiding in a semi-truck.
  • Fernando arrives in San Francisco and lets himself into Jennifer's home.
  • Fernando lands a job with the San Francisco Ballet.
  • ICE detains Fernando while he's in rehearsal.
  • Jennifer and Fernando reunite in Mexico

The players

Jennifer

A wealthy San Francisco socialite who becomes entangled in a torrid affair with Fernando.

Fernando

A talented Mexican ballet dancer who illegally enters the U.S. and begins a passionate relationship with Jennifer.

Rupert Friend

Jennifer's smug, society brat of a brother.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The government agency that detains Fernando while he is rehearsing with the San Francisco Ballet.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The film offers a complex and unsettling exploration of the power dynamics between the privileged and the marginalized, as well as the harsh realities faced by undocumented immigrants in the U.S.