Dreamin' Wild

It’s a lot to pack into a seemingly unassuming little movie, but Pohlad—who also directed 2014’s superb Love & Mercy—pulls it off.

[The] feelgood story of a long dormant musical dream finally realized was enough to earn major press attention, but is it enough for a feature-length film? Probably not, which is why writer-director Pohlad piled on the melodrama and leaned into clichés.

It raises all kinds of familial guilt issues that are really interesting.

In some ways this movie is restrained by the fact that it's a true story. If some of that could be let go, a better movie could've been had -- but it is good.

Casey Affleck does strong work as Donnie Emerson...

A well-cast, modestly affecting drama... it boasts a generous heart gently dusted with life’s complications as it beats a familiar rhythm of easygoing redemption.

Dreamin' Wild reflects gently on family ties, unrealised ambition and the haunting power of music.

The melodramatics and flashy performance sequences of a typical musical biopic aren't found here.

Quiet and understated, Dreamin’ Wild is a drama that forgoes the usual music biopic story arc for a story more sensitive to the afterimages that last in our minds, sometimes for decades after the music has stopped.

If you want a feel-good film with some good music and terrific acting and directing then I would recommend you check out Dreamin' Wild - both the movie and the album.