What Dreams May Come

"What Dreams May Come" is a 1998 American fantasy romance drama film directed by Vincent Ward and starring Robin Williams and Annabella Sciorra. The movie begins with a beautiful visual representation of Chris Nielsen's (Robin Williams) paintings, showcasing his fascination with the nature of heaven and hell. Chris, an architectural artist, is married to Annie (Annabella Sciorra), and they have a loving relationship. As Chris's health declines due to a terminal illness, he finds the strength to spend his final days with Annie, making the most of their time together. In a poignant scene, Chris's artistic imagination is brought to life when he dies, and he finds himself transported to a stunning afterlife realm, which he calls "The First Heaven." The heavenly realm depicted in the film is an enchanting world of vibrant colors, breathtaking landscapes, and extraordinary creatures. This magnificent reality is inhabited by numerous beings from various backgrounds and cultures, each with their own unique experiences and perspectives. Chris is thrilled to have the opportunity to explore this boundless and magical world, but he becomes disheartened upon learning that Annie did not survive her grief after his passing. According to the movie's universe, those who loved each other in life are reunited in the afterlife. However, Annie has succumbed to her grief, causing her spirit to become trapped in the mortal realm. Unable to move on to the afterlife, Annie becomes tormented by the memories of their love, driving her to an ultimate act: taking her own life on earth, and thus, condemning herself to Hades, also known as "The Second Circle." The Second Circle is a haunting, bleak, and sorrowful realm that is characterized by its desolate landscapes, gray skies, and eerie sounds. Chris, being the loving and devoted husband that he is, cannot accept the idea of living without Annie by his side. He decides to embark on a perilous journey to rescue his wife from the torments of Hades, risking an eternity of damnation in the process. Chris's resolve to save Annie is fueled by his love and determination. He navigates the treacherous territories of Hades, confronting the fears and insecurities that have been a part of his own psyche during his lifetime. He encounters a cast of intriguing characters who become his allies and guides on this arduous journey. Chris's odyssey takes him through various realms of the underworld, which are all interconnected in complex ways. He encounters the ruler of Hades, Ambrosio, a mysterious and enigmatic figure, and later, a character named Roscoe, who becomes a kindred spirit and helps Chris navigate the underworld. Along the way, Chris must confront his own fears and doubts, and eventually, come to terms with the consequences of his actions. Ultimately, Chris finds Annie trapped in a labyrinthine prison, her consciousness locked in a state of perpetual pain and sorrow. Chris manages to find her and holds her close, and as they reminisce about their time in life, Chris discovers the root of Annie's sorrow and the reason behind her decision to end her life on earth. Chris realizes that Annie has been trapped by the pain and memories of their time together, and her inability to let go was causing her immense suffering. Armed with this newfound understanding, Chris helps Annie overcome her grief and find her inner peace. Together, they are able to break free from their emotional bonds, and thus free her from the Second Circle. The movie concludes with Chris and Annie reuniting in the First Heaven, a testament to the power of love and the human spirit. Chris's love and devotion were instrumental in breaking down the barriers that had imprisoned Annie in Hades. In the end, they find eternal peace, and their love becomes an integral part of the divine plan. The film "What Dreams May Come" is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the afterlife. The story is told with great visual and emotional depth, using vibrant colors and striking imagery to convey the complexities of the human experience. Robin Williams brings his signature wit and compassion to the role of Chris Nielsen, bringing depth and nuance to a character who must navigate the complexities of love and the afterlife.