Jessica Chastain Reveals Favorite Films by Nolan, Spielberg, Scorsese and Kubrick

Jessica Chastain says her lead role in Michel Franco’s erotic thriller Dreams was a difficult challenge she was eager to take on. Having worked with Franco on the 2023 drama Memory, she knew his one-take approach would make scenes demanding, especially those requiring intimacy and vulnerability.

In the film Chastain plays Jennifer McCarthy, a wealthy socialite who begins a clandestine relationship with a promising young ballet dancer, Fernando Rodríguez, played by Isaac Hernández. When Fernando secretly crosses the US-Mexico border, Jennifer resolves to protect their future at whatever desperate lengths she determines, and the movie also features Rupert Friend and Marshall Bell; Chastain is credited as a producer.

She described Dreams as a timely exploration of immigration and power dynamics and spoke about collaborating with Franco to ensure safety and security during intimate scenes. Chastain said the role stretched her as an actor and that the film continues conversations about privilege and responsibility.

United States, Mexico, US-Mexico border

jessica chastain, michel franco, dreams, isaac hernández, rupert friend, marshall bell, immigration, erotic thriller, one-take, producer