WashU Alumna Alison Small Produces Sci-Fi Film 'DreamQuil' Premiering at SXSW

The film, written and directed by Alex Prager, explores the dangers of automation and the importance of humanity in a technological world.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 10:18am

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In a society navigating the use of artificial intelligence and technology, the sci-fi film 'DreamQuil' premiered at the SXSW Film & TV Festival. The film, produced by WashU alumna Alison Small, follows a mother named Carol who undergoes a virtual retreat to reconnect with her family, only to return home and find she has been replaced by an AI robot. Director Alex Prager's eerie and unsettling vision combines the aesthetics of Hollywood's Golden Age with a careful consideration of the relationship between humanity and technology.

Why it matters

As technology continues to advance, 'DreamQuil' explores the dangers of automation and the slow loss of the traits that make humanity distinct from machines. The film encourages audiences to reflect on their own personal relationship with technology and the importance of preserving our humanity.

The details

In Prager's retrofuturistic world, Elizabeth Banks stars as Carol, a mother and aspiring real estate partner struggling to connect with her family. In an attempt to be happier, she undergoes the 'DreamQuil' treatment, a virtual retreat. When Carol returns home, she finds that she has been replaced by an AI robot identical to her. As a producer, Alison Small worked to bring Prager's unique vision to life, navigating the challenges of production over the course of several years.

  • The film premiered at the SXSW Film & TV Festival in March 2026.
  • Prager pitched the 'DreamQuil' idea to Brownstone Productions in 2020, and production began a few years later.

The players

Alex Prager

The writer and director of 'DreamQuil', known for her eerie and unsettling photos that prioritize a careful consideration of mise-en-scéne and vibrant colors.

Alison Small

A WashU alumna who produced 'DreamQuil' through her role as the head of film at Brownstone Productions, co-founded by Elizabeth Banks and Max Handelman.

Elizabeth Banks

The actress who stars as Carol in 'DreamQuil'.

Brownstone Productions

The production company co-founded by Elizabeth Banks and Max Handelman, which produced 'DreamQuil'.

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What they’re saying

“I think what is really special about this movie is that it really transports you to a totally unique, almost surreal at times world … And so it's kind of just about immersing yourself in a world that lets you have some introspection into what your own personal relationship with technology is.”

— Alison Small, Producer

“Alex Prager is a phenomenally talented visual artist, and she actually came to us early on the process with just the kernel of an idea for 'DreamQuill.' And so honestly, it really was Alex as a filmmaker that drew us to the project. She is so creative. Her work is so original, and it has sort of a depth to it in terms of theme, even in her photography.”

— Alison Small, Producer

What’s next

The film is currently seeking nationwide distribution after its premiere at SXSW.

The takeaway

As technology continues to advance, 'DreamQuil' encourages audiences to reflect on the dangers of automation and the importance of preserving our humanity in an increasingly digital world.