Dreamquil: A New Chapter for LA? DTLA Photographer Debuts Film at World Premiere
Surreal Visuals and Family Dynamics Take Center Stage in ‘Dreamquil’
Opening with striking visuals that immediately captivate audiences, "Dreamquil," a compelling and unsettling futuristic film, marks the directorial debut of acclaimed photographer Alex Prager. Prager, who splits her time between Los Feliz and Malibu, first immersed herself in photography a generation ago, capturing the essence of Downtown Los Angeles.
Reflecting on her roots, Prager remarked at last month’s South By Southwest festival, "That’s funny that you mentioned Downtown LA since that takes me back to the first time I picked up a camera. I would shoot down there all the time. I remember having this exhibit back then and it was all black and white photos from downtown and just one color photo."
At 46, Prager’s passion for photography was ignited by a William Eggleston exhibition at the Getty Museum, leading her to create large-scale works that blur the lines between reality and artifice.
Together with her sister, Vanessa Prager, she co-wrote the script for "Dreamquil," a narrative that examines a near-future reality while drawing inspiration from classics like "The Stepford Wives" and "Westworld." "We both care very deeply about what’s happening in the world," Prager said, adding that collaborating with her sister, known for her dark humor, has made for a rewarding creative process.
"Dreamquil" explores the unraveling dynamics of a nuclear family. Elizabeth Banks stars as Carol, a dedicated real estate agent striving for partnership. Her husband, Gary, portrayed by John C. Reilly, is a relaxed English teacher longing for more quality time with Carol and their prepubescent son, Quentin, played by Toby Larsen.
The plot thickens as Carol, inundated with ads for ‘Dreamquil,’ a therapy promising a fresh start, decides to leave her inhospitable home for treatment after learning her best friend swears by it. In her absence, a robot takes her place, quickly forming a bond with Gary and Quentin. Upon Carol’s return, she faces challenges regarding her replacement.
When asked about the dual roles she undertook, Banks described it as "a fun acting challenge." She humorously noted, "I got to see myself with a better body, shinier hair, shinier lips and a version of me that’s never tired. Despite all that, I’m glad it’s not me."
Prager praised Banks’s performance, highlighting her successful portrayal of both the unsatisfied Carol and her robotic doppelganger, saying, "You can feel the humanity every time a line comes out of John’s mouth. The constant reminder of humanity was needed. John and Elizabeth elevate every scene they’re in."
The film showcases previously collaborated talents, as Banks, Cate Blanchett, and Bryce Dallas Howard have all appeared in Prager’s short films. "Dreamquil" represents her first venture as a writer-director, with Banks noting Prager’s unique ability as a visual storyteller who creates immersive worlds.
Set against a backdrop of a hazy Los Angeles where residents largely remain indoors, the story unfolds in a sterile high-rise apartment shared by Carol, Gary, and Quentin. This portrayal raises questions about the future of Los Angeles itself.
"We’ll see what the future is for Los Angeles," Prager said. "Los Angeles is a city that’s constantly changing. Look at how much things have changed since the wildfires. Los Angeles is in constant transition. I love Los Angeles. It’s such an inspiring place."
