Have Dreams, Will Travel (2007)

Undescribable Perfection

Overrated and overhyped

While it doesn't offer any answers, it both thrills and makes you think.

Blistering performances.

When I first heard that the movie "was unable to get a US DVD release due to insufficient funds" that pretty much set the tone for what to expect; lacking. However, after being impressed by Robb's performance in Teribithia, this movie got me curious. The delivery of dialogue felt weak and scripted; a usual flaw w/ many child actors. This did however lend the young characters a "broken" feel to them, which is reflected by their upbringings, so it felt justified. I did enjoy the poor charm of the characters. Sleeping in a pig sty, the engagement ring being a piece of wire; the same clothes used throughout the entire duration of the film. It sets the stage quite nicely for the upcoming drama that is about to unfold upon our beloved young actors. When we finally learn the reason for Cass's trauma, I must admit I wasn't as surprised as I had hoped to be. I knew that she had something to do with the accident, and I even knew that it had to be some form of sexual abuse.What got me the most out of the entire film was the scene where Ben finally reaches Cass after evading several psychiatric wards. At this point I didn't know what Cass was going to be like. When he approaches her I was expecting and somewhat hoping for a violent encounter. But what what got instead was a mellowed-out, severely depressed Cass. I had goosebumps when Cass looked up to Ben with her dark gloomy eyes.On the whole, the movie finishes what it starts with nothing left hanging. It's a humble film with nothing to show off for. It delivers a heartwarming tale of lost innocence, family issues, the pursuit of happiness, all that good stuff you would expect from this sort of film. It is pretty hard to come by in the states which I find utterly ironic and somewhat disappointing. The latter being due to the fact that I saw some potential acting ability from these rising young actors. If you happen to come across it, check it out. Definitely an underrated film that deserved more than just a film festival spot and Brazilian-only DVD release.

It's one of those serendipitous moments in life when you stumble upon a work of genius. Such a moment happened to me today as this film found its way onto my screen. I had no expectations, no preconceptions, and no idea what to expect, and I have to say I was utterly blown away.This is one of those films that could never be simply described. An ultimately dark story of true companionship. Love definitely plays an essential part, but I think "Love story" gives the wrong impression. It is the adventure of two children, traveling through America and their childhood alike, dealing with an unfair handful or hurdles and hardships. The direction is impeccable, and allows the gifted young actors to excel to their full potential. Everything in this film is meticulously brilliant, and so refreshingly intelligent. It's unusual these days to find a film that doesn't patronize its audience. It is almost poetic in the way it gives as few words as possible. Some people may find this slow and boring, but these are people who fail to see between the lines, where the true story lies.A film both heartwarming and heart-wrenching that will sharpen your braincells, moisten your cheeks, and really make you think about yourself and the life you lead.

"Have Dreams, Will Travel" is a quirky sort of movie, full of little eccentricities and minor faults that make up its personality. Writer/director Brad Isaacs is not overly ambitious, probably quite aware of his limitations as a first-time director. He has structured what amounts to the filmed equivalent of a short story, very economical and specific.The star of this film is Cayden Boyd, who plays Ben - a kid who tends to disappear into the shadows. His lack of identity seems to be polar opposite to Cassie (AnnaSophia Robb). Ben lives at a diner with his boat-obsessed father and his movie-obsessed mom. One rainy night, there is a terrible car wreck outside the diner, and the only survivor is young Cassie. After she is nursed back to health, Cassie decides that she and Ben would be best off to hit the road and head east.That's the basic set-up for the film, which is largely a road trip. They meet many interesting characters on the way to Baltimore, one of the most so who is played by Val Kilmer. His role in this film is only slightly more significant than his appearance in "The Missing", but he is quite excellent as a depressed pig farmer. Stephen Root is very good as an interfering sheriff character.Although somewhat lightweight at the beginning, "Have Dreams, Will Travel" proves itself to be a far deeper (and darker) film than it first appears to be. In fact, it turns out to be not quite the kids you might assume it is. Perhaps that makes it a little schizophrenic, but it works quite well in this case. Overall, this film is individual and original enough to be more than worth the watch. It has a certain quality that feels strange yet heartwarming. Robb and Boyd give their very best performances in two quite difficult roles, and more than make the film what it is.RATING: 7.5 out of 10

This film is the tale of twelve year old Benjamen Reynolds who is neglected by his parents meets a girl named Cassie after her parents die in a car wreck. Upon becoming friends Cassie convinces Ben to run away with her to Baltimore to meet her Aunt and Uncle, all the while Cassie hides a secret about the car wreck.That is the basic plot line of Have Dreams, Will Travel but this movie is anything but basic, it is magnificent magical and heartbreaking all at the same time. Heather Grahm and Val Kilmer are great in the small roles they have but none other is better then the stars Cayden Boyd and AnnaSophia Robb.AnnaSophia Robb has proved herself time and again as being a capable actress in such films as Bridge to Terabithia and The Reaping. Here is no different; her portrayal of Cassie is Oscar worthy.Cayden Boyd only notable role in the film industry prior to this is young angel in X-Men 3 The Last Stand, and he has proved himself in this movie to be a fresh new addition to the next generation of actors.Have Dreams, Will Travel is in a genre all its own its not a love story NOT a children's movie not a drama, not an adventure. It is a piece of art crafted by a brilliant team of writers actors and directors.Have Dreams, Will Travel, will indeed travel far this film is grand delightful and truthful of the ugliness of the world.