Dream (2023) User Reviews

BIG ISSUE!

[daisukereds · 5/10 · 28 July 2023]

This is a strange movie.

The premise of a professional player helping a homeless-team in their upcoming Soccer World Cup could be an interesting one. Simple and grounded enough where character interactions and developments could make for a memorable story.. this isn't the case here. It all feels like excerpts of a "TV drama" instead, with scenes that come out of nowhere, are rushed, or undercooked. Everything with the lead's mother just goes too fast and I didn't care for! Then the cast of characters is presented and barely explored, which is fine.. but for their interactions to not develop into anything memorable or worth caring for either is a problem. The lessons learned, the arcs and emotional weight are just there to tick boxes. It all reminded me of the much better "Shaolin Soccer" film, with a similar team and problems. But that one feels better paced and is capable of cramming more story in its length to make it juicy.

Anyway, I quite liked the locations and most camerawork! But the small parts feel really small, even more so when compared to the "bigger" ones.

I can't really recommend this, as it is a product that feels like a lot of parts that don't add to something greater.

Personally, came to my attention because my country was shown (in trailers) to take part in the tournament (which is unusual to see), and was curious as to its inclusion. I'm also familiar with Park Seo-joon.. not because anything I saw in the trailers was enticing.

I think this is a kids movie

[TheodoraEh · 6/10 · 7 August 2023]

So maybe we're unfair with the low reviews, maybe we'd love it if we were 8? I had no idea what to expect but I couldn't wait to watch anything with PSJ and IU. Unfortunately I was let down but I still love these actors and I guess it's ok if they decide to do movies like that. The premise was cute and somehow interesting so no hard feelings. But yeah, watch it with your kids and write a review based on their opinion so we can have a more objective view.

If you like the actors and you're an adult, you should definitely watch Hwarang, Itaewon Class, Midnight Runners, She Was Pretty, and my all time favorite Fight For My Way with Park Seo Joon. And My Mister with IU. To see what they're normally capable of and suitable for.

MIDDLE OF THE ROAD BLAND

[pjkblue-35926 · 5/10 · 30 July 2023]

Lots of character actors are in this one, but for me, I really didn't care for or have any "rooting" interest for any of them as they were written.

It wasn't like a "Karate Kid" or similar story where they come back to win in unique ways, overcoming their obstacles and going on an improbable winning streak... NOPE.

It was a subtle way of saying the wins are not important, the satisfaction of being competitive and "up against the odds" deal.

It jumped around a lot, lacked continuity and the acting was pretty much dull as if it was just mailed in, you could say.

Oh well, it was not painful to view, it just treaded water.

Because I'm me

[alaningle7 · 7/10 · 29 August 2023]

I probably gave an extra point as I adore iu (Lee Ji Eun) and admire Park Seo-joon and I think the best part of the movie is their interactions. The movie looks at a group of down on their luck men who enter the homeless World Cup representing Korea, and their manager who initially is not interested and a young documentary maker. The movie aims to be a feel good motivational film about succeeding against adversity but I found it lacked any depth and the storyline was easily predictable. The advantage with the simplicity is that it is a movie which can be enjoyed as a family, where the underdogs win the hearts of the onlookers.

A Scripted Team?

[PalmBeachG · 7/10 · 6 August 2023]

Such a strange concept for a soccer movie - I can see putting together a rag-tag homeless team together but to recruit the bad-boy pro and talk him into a scripted team so a drama can be made out of it? What caught my attention in the first place to watch this movie was Park Seo-joon and would have loved to see him in a more active role on the field (no fault of his own - it is the scripting or writer) instead of taking a sideline tole the whole time as a coach of the drama team. Maybe he could have jumped in instead of the Brazilians to save the day since alot of rules were being broken anyway. Park See-joon did a great job with the role he was given and as always, a favorite in this movie too.

It is a fun watch however...

[Infin1teBloom · 6/10 · 9 August 2023]

... it is certainly lacking something.

Perhaps I was hoping for something along the lines of The Blind Side or Friday Night Lights. But then obviously more lighthearted, but this was nothing like that. It was like the makers were fans of such movies and sort of pulled an entirely invented story out of a hat. There were no real inspirational events or teams to follow perhaps? Nothing real they could mold into a movie about people their plights and situations and such... maybe even with some deeper message?

I learned they let homeless people play soccer for some reason, that was about it.

So yeah, its entertaining, but also an incredibly empty story sadly.

Touching & hilarious

[jasminn_tan · 6/10 · 3 August 2023]

I was a little excited for this because Park Seo Jun and IU are in it, and they're a duo I didn't know I wanted to see work together until they did. I enjoyed their relationship dynamic in the movie and I'm actually so glad that the writers didn't write up a romance between them as a sub-plot because that would've cheapened the movie honestly. The overall plot was alright and while I think it could've been executed better, the different relationships between the characters of various backgrounds and how they finally came together to work as one, was the main goal of this movie. In that sense, they captured the essence of football and teamwork. They also made a hilarious bunch and the ending was really touching. They didn't win of course, but it was their collective spirit that shone through.

Being crazy in this crazy world is the normal thing to be, right?

[hanalisss · 10/10 · 25 July 2023]

Hopeful, emotional, sweet and uplifting!!

I was waiting for this movie for SO long, I think it was because if covid that was paused and it's finally here!

Big fan of Park Seo Joon and IU and first time ever seeing them together in something makes it so cool!

Fave part is the very special cameo of the amazing Kang Ha Neul who was Park Seo Joon co star in Midnight Runners and also acted with IU in the super famous kdrama Moon Lovers.

I love how quirky all characters are, the comedy its on point (Korean style comedy) and has the right amount of drama but doesn't get too heavy.

The overall stories are very emotional and you will find yourself going through a lot of different feelings throughout the whole movie, rooting for the characters to find happiness and keep fighting to beat the demons that once brought them to the situation they are in.

The message of the movie itself is very moving: Everyone in life has a different story and background and you will never know what will happen to you, so be kind, never give up and fight for what your want and for the people you love.

You will cry and smile with them and at the end you will have an amazing feeling of hope.

Watch it and enjoy this super heartwarming movie!

Enjoyable feel good movie

[jaldred-66120 · 7/10 · 6 August 2023]

If you need something to fill an evening this will pass the time. I am not a football fan or a sports fan so this is not my usual fare. If you are used to k dramas then 2 hours feels short and you cannot get the depth of story you do in 16 episodes. IU was fine I thought something different again and made jokes about not being the youngest and Park Seo Joon even managed to get through without stroking the back of his head (I think). Don't expect anything groundbreaking and you will forget it as soon as it stops but it might bring a smile to your face . Probably not one for serious sports fans.

My love for Park SJ and IU is not enough :(

[cherlockhome · 2/10 · 28 July 2023]

I love both main actors and they are great actors BUT !!! Something about how the movie tells the story or the script or the main plot is just not that good. I was bored and Its not very funny or entertaining. The worst part is that i have so much love for many actors in this movie but its not enough and I gave up watching it after 45 mins or something.

Its almost seems like the producers and production house doesn't understand what they're doing.

Very disappointing with the script and plot and I was super hyped and looking forward to see Park Seo Joon and IU in the same movie... what a waste..

Feel good. Watch it now

[raysreviews · 10/10 · 25 July 2023]

Funny, light hearted, at times emotional, good movie.

Been waiting to watch this movie for a few weeks, after watching snippets and the trailer. Finally watched it on Netflix today and I loved it.

Park Seo Joon as the angry young footballer is the star of this movie. His acting as always is fantastic. His comic timing is great. He nails his coaching and emotional scenes. Loved his chemistry and scenes with IU. They make a great pair and would love to see them in a show together.

IU was the surprise element for me, as I haven't watched her before. She was really good.

Every supporting cast member was perfectly cast. They did well in their parts.

Enjoyed it. Definitely rewatching it.

Disappointed

[reginafilangi-06664 · 1/10 · 29 July 2023]

Had high expectations from Park seo hoon and IU. Movie not upto the mark. No chemistry between lead actors is okay It's not your usual kdrama its a movie but the director and writers could've made it more interesting I was literally surfing while watching this movie, also as a non Korean speaker it was hard to understand IU as she was talking to fast. Movie doesn't make any sense to me, even a Bollywood movie with the same plot is much better than this one. I just can't believe that both IU and PSK chose to do this movie even after reading the script. Even this outstanding actors can't help this movie to be a hit among the audience.

Meaningful and entertaining

[tehyaping · 10/10 · 30 July 2023]

This movie has the right pace and plot to keep me glued to the screen for the entire duration. I liked it so much that I watched it twice. I'm glad they did not turn this into a predictable love story but the main leads (Park SJ and IU) are there to move the story along. I love how their conversations are so real and there's even a scene where they showed each other the middle finger. The real story is about the homeless players and how they overcome their personal challenges. Each one has their own story and the director portrayed each with the right ethos without turning to mush or melodrama. Double thumbs up!

A run-of-the-mill sports movie

[thewestliesahead · 4/10 · 31 July 2023]

This is an aggressively average movie. It packs in all the usual clichés - the team sucks, a few players have some talent that isn't used (yet), the coach doesn't want to be there and gives up and then returns with an inspirational speech etc. - which is fine. Clichés are clichés for a reason: they work. But you have to DO something with them. You can't just plonk them in the script and think that's it. The fact that the team sucks is supposed to be funny - it isn't. When some players finally realise their potential it's supposed to be triumphant - it isn't.

The only thing that halfway works is the story arc of the coach and that has more to do with the actor's charisma than with the writing. Park Seo-Joon gets very little to work with, but he's good. As is Lee Ji-Eun. Their rivalry provides some much needed humour. Everything else is bland, even though the characters should be compelling. They're all down on their luck and they've all been through things, but they're written in such a way that it's hard to feel anything for them all.

I wouldn't recommend this to anyone, but hardcore fans of the two leads. If you want to watch a sports movie, there are loads of other, way better ones.

Records or Memories?

[spasek · 8/10 · 27 July 2023]

I know I sound like a broken record, but the Koreans are the masters of entertainment! And only the Koreans are masters of combining comedy with drama with a thoughtful message, which in my opinion, represents the next step of evolution in the entertainment industry. We all want to be entertained, but to use the medium of movies and TV shows to convey a message is to really use this medium to inspire and provide awareness.

This movie is a true delight, and you are likely to find yourselves with some absolute laugh-out-loud moments as well as moments that just might tug at your heartstrings.

Yoon Hong Dae is a professional soccer player who ends up in trouble and is placed on probation. His agent-in order to try and restore Dae's questionable reputation-puts him in charge of organizing and coaching a team-a team of homeless men to compete in the World Cup for Homeless players in Budapest.

Of course, we get a collection of homeless men of varying ages and backgrounds with different sets of skills. Seeing these guys attempting to play soccer is absolutely hilarious! One cheers when he kicks the ball and his shoe flies over the goal! And yet, each player has something to play for. They aren't proud of being homeless, but this game just might restore the confidence to make some life changes as well as help people become aware that homelessness is a problem that has to be addressed. There are enough resources on this planet to ensure that every single human being has food, water, clothes, and shelter. So, why is it so hard?

Lee So Min is in charge of the documentary she is making to help showcase the team. Of course, she and Hong Dae don't exactly see eye-to-eye, and their spats and bickering will make you giggle.

At first, Hong Dae is less than thrilled to be coaching a team of homeless men, most of whom have little-to-no skills. He figures he's wasting his time, but the more he gets to know them, the more he finds a connection between each of them. Perhaps that is a part of the process: not to see a homeless person as a homeless person but as a person. It's difficult to ignore someone when you've developed a connection. It's even more inspiring when the entire team comes together to try and get Hong Dae out of trouble when he's wrongfully charged with assault against four teen boys who harassed a woman with a mental disability.

The movie isn't about winning. It's about awareness as well as simply doing your best no matter how badly the odds are stacked against you. This is an especially powerful point when dealing with homeless people who may easily feel, "What's the point? Nothing changes." But Hong Dae asks them a poignant question, "Are you here for records or for memories?"

One thing I will say is that this movie is certainly memorable, important, and a sheer delight to watch. It reminded me of a combination of the "The Mighty Ducks" and "The Bad News Bears." "Dream" certainly more than belongs in that kind of company!

I cannot believe IU did this movie

[fcam-80675 · 3/10 · 30 July 2023]

This movie on Netflix begins with a rapid succession of childish dialogues that may appeal to preteens. Unfortunately, it does not improve any further. The first ten minutes---is when we can tell a good movie (or drama) from a bad one. In this movie, it took me five minutes before I was about to turn it off. But I did not because IU (Lee Ji-Eun) is my most treasured Korean singer, with her velvety voice and ability to control the voice keys flawlessly. Three words sum up the movie-melodramatic, mundane, and a horrible script.

It is a pity that a top artist like IU has decided to star in this substandard movie. She should have known better-or maybe IU's manager forced her to do it for monetary reasons. Or did she agree to do it in dreams? Those who wish to see the vastly brighter side of IU's acting should see My Mister (one of the best Korean dramas) and Producer (written by the unparalleled top Korean writer Park Ji-Eun (CLOY)).

Better than expected

[patrick-obrien93 · 8/10 · 30 July 2023]

It's excalty and more than you expected.

It's sweet cheesy and heart felt film . Every character has their time to shine .

Don't look deep into the silly plot points such as having a homeless world cup for soccer exclusively to homeless people obviously.

Some might find somethings not progressive enough such as one if the members of the team in love with a woman who has a disability of speech and they say mentally ill.

The dream real for this movie and is shows how creativity is dying in the west when something so simple as this film is much more creative and what they did with a small budget .

Good Enough

[PennyReviews · 5/10 · 26 July 2023]

Korean Movie " Dream " is a classic feel good melodrama with a heartwarming plot.

The movie is enjoyable at first, though it would have been nice if they didn't focus only on a few characters and give some background and some screentime to the rest of the team's players. There were also a few funny jokes that spiced up the story.

It does get a bit boring towards the end, though the ending was a happy and satisfying one full of emotional scenes.

The performances, in addition, were enjoyable by everyone in the cast and the characters were interesting.

So, overall, five stars out of ten stars.

Entertaining and warm-hearted movie at the same time

[richfir · 9/10 · 7 August 2023]

To be honest, when watching the trailer for the first time, I don't think this movie will be good, but because there are UI and Park Seo Joon in the movie, I want to see how they perform the script. I believe IU and Park Seo Joon are not actors who just accept an ordinary movie script, so there must be something good about this film.

When I watched it, the problem and story introduction is quite boring, but fortunately, from the middle until the end, the director can build the story very well. When you see how a sport-comedy movie should be filmed, I think I couldn't imagine better than this movie.

Furthermore, there are a lot of sad and lovely stories from the soccer players you must think, it's relevant with our unpredicted life, and how we should treat others, and understands their conditions. Really hearh-warming stories !

Boring story and half baked characters

[phd_travel · 3/10 · 28 October 2023]

Going into this movie as a non soccer fan I didn't expect to enjoy every part of this movie. Unfortunately even the other parts like the back stories weren't compelling and all felt half baked. Too many little stories so did not ger a chance to care for any of them and didn't care what happened to them later. Most of the jokes fell flat. Park Seo Joon does look convincing as a sports guy like he did in Fight for my Way. Wish he had done another series instead of this movie. The soccer segments might be more interesting to fans of the sport. I didn't feel invested in who won or lost.

Don't bother. This is a rare bad movie from Korea.

Wonderfull

[gianmarcoronconi · 9/10 · 7 August 2023]

This is not really a review, it should be taken more as a collection of impressions of the film.

Really well made football film that tells a beautiful story of redemption very well by merging all the stories of redemption of both the homeless national team coach and the homeless themselves who all have beautiful redemption stories. The beauty of this film lies in its very beautiful and well done structure and also ironic enough to lighten a film that otherwise would have been very heavy but without falling into the ridiculous and giving the viewer a wonderful feeling of redemption and lightness.

Cruel to warmth

[madankarwaniq · 8/10 · 3 August 2023]

In furst phase you are gonna to find it cruel but at the end it's so soft and warmth. Like a basic concepts of a standard drama you will se the divorce scene and sad relationship of a daughter and father. Can say an Okay Movie.

Second phase is all most good in basic sense but not good for daily watcher. In my point of view a normal or intiative k drama watcher would like it.

Movie also has some boaring and annoying things and it not suggestible to others who likely watch the movie from a romantic perspective. All at the last movie was fine which have lack of logics and bed Side of political and self focused scenes of greedy.

THIS MOVE IS FOR THOSE PEOPLE WHO ARE SEARCHING FOR SOMETHING SIMPLE IN THIS DIFFICULT WORLD

[anchalchaudhary-10209 · 10/10 · 30 January 2024]

THIS MOVE IS FOR THOSE PEOPLE WHO ARE SEARCHING FOR SOMETHING SIMPLE IN THIS DIFFICULT WORLD.

THIS IS A LIGHT AND KIND HEARTED MOVIE WITH JOY,EMOTIONAL ESSENCE, GROUNED CHARACTERS. IT IS A KIND OF A MOVIE IN WHICH YOU ARE CRYING IN ONE SCENE AND LAUGHING IN ANOTHER

WHEN WE TALK ABOUT ACTING WE CANT EVEN FIND ONE PERSON WHO IS DOING OVERACTING OR NOT DOING JUSTICE WITH THE CHARACTER BY THAT ITS EASY TO CONNECT WITH THE CHARACTER EVEN THE LOCATION FOR EACH SCENE IS NICE

IT MIGHT BE A SPOILER FOR INDIAN FANS, THIS MOVIE IF YOU HAVE LOVE"CHAKDE INDIA" YOU WILL SURELY CAN CONNECT WITH THIS MOVIE BECAUSE THE PLOT IS APPROXIMATELY SAME.

IF YOU LOVE ACTION SUSPENCE FOLDED TRUTH THIS MOVE IS NOT FOR YOU.