Ruby Sparks (2012) Review: Dreams Do Come Through

Calvin Weir-Fields (Paul Dano) is a young popular novelist, now struggling with decline after a recent breakup and loss of his father. To make matters worse he is also suffering from writers block and a loss of inspiration.

One night Calvin dreams of a girl (Zoe Kazan) and awakes the next morning inspired and starts to write about her. He calls her Ruby Sparks and this becomes a regular routine as he gets more and more fond of the character. One day, Calvin awakes from his dream only to find the actual girl from his dreams in his house and not a figment of his imagination. Throughout the movie we see Calvin and Ruby bond and start a relationship. We see challenges arise between the pair and Calvin is left to question his morality, much to his dismay.

When the girl of your dreams literally becomes the girl from your dreams, this was Calvin’s case. Fun, charming, imaginative and creative is the perfect words to describe this independent film Ruby Sparks. Calvin somehow was able to manifest his character Ruby from his mind into reality and she became his new love and instilled life within him. Kudos to Zoe Kazan on her charming and sweet portrayal of the character Ruby. Paul Dano should also be commended for his performance as well. The onscreen chemistry between her and Paul Dano was adorable, fun and really carried this film.

The movie has its moments of humor. Calvin’s brother Harry (Chris Messina) was somewhat Calvin’s confidante and adviser of the situation and was pretty much the film’s comic relief. The film conveys a message within its impressive writing and dialogue regarding the positives and challenges of modern day relationships but in its own unique and creative way further intensified by the performances of the leads. It becomes a bit emotional towards the end but overall a pleasant film with strong performances and a soothing end.

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