TheyDream

Directed by William D. Caballero
United States
2026
91 mins

Synopsis

A visionary filmmaker and his mother heal their grief through art, combining family archives with animation to bring their loved ones back to life. Prize winner, Sundance.

In this deeply moving documentary, queer director William D. Caballero returns home to be with his mother as they navigate the loss of their family members. Together, they draw on family audio and video, and step into the roles of their relatives – reimagined through vivid animation. This simple yet cathartic act soon transforms their lives. In one of many powerful moments, William plays both his father and his younger self, revisiting a conversation shaped by homophobia. Blending animation with live action and cinema vérité, the film offers a tender experience that is as unexpected as it is full of warmth. Winner of the NEXT Special Jury Award at Sundance, this debut documentary is not to be missed.

Visually inventive and exciting
there’s so much to marvel at in any given frame, including miniatures, puppets, and motion capture technology

Tickets

Thu 4 June 2026, 12:45pm
State Theatre
Assisted ListeningWheelchair
Fri 5 June 2026, 6pm
Dendy Newtown - Cinema 1
Assisted ListeningWheelchair
Sun 7 June 2026, 5:45pm
Event Cinemas George Street - Cinema 3
Assisted ListeningWheelchair
  • Program Strand
  • Year
    2026
  • Classification
    Unclassified 15+
  • Country
    USA
  • Language
    In English and Spanish with English subtitles
  • Director
    William D. Caballero
  • Producer
    William D. Caballero, Brad Jones, Erin Ploss-Campoamor, Elaine Del Valle
  • Screenwriter
    William D. Caballero, Brad Jones, Erin Ploss-Campoamor, Elaine Del Valle
  • Cinematographer
    Ben Premeaux, William D. Caballero, Brad Jones, Antonio Cisneros
  • Editor
    William D. Caballero
  • Genre
  • Premiere
    Australian Premiere
  • Company Credits
    Festival Contact: The Film Collaborative
  • Official Website
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