The film ‘Dreamin’ Wild,’ set for release in Japan on January 31 (Friday), has unveiled the actual album cover of ‘DREAMIN’ WILD’ by the real-life brother duo “Donnie & Joe Emerson,” whose story inspired the movie, alongside a photo that recreates the cover in the film.
Directed and written by Bill Pohlad, known for his work as producer on ‘American Utopia’ and ‘Brokeback Mountain,’ this marks his first directorial effort since 2014’s ‘Love & Mercy.’ The film is based on the remarkable true story of Donnie and Joe Emerson, who, in 1979, formed a duo in their rural Washington town. The brothers, passionate about music, created numerous songs in a studio built by their father. Although their album ‘DREAMIN’ WILD’ went unnoticed at the time, it gained newfound appreciation and popularity as a “buried masterpiece” among collectors after 30 years. However, this unexpected success stirs up past memories and emotions that Donnie had long tried to avoid.
The protagonist, Donnie, is played by the acclaimed actor Casey Affleck, who won the Best Actor award at the 89th Academy Awards for ‘Manchester by the Sea.’ Donnie’s wife, Nancy, is portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, known for her role as the heroine in ‘(500) Days of Summer.’ The young Donnie is played by Noah Jupe, a talented young actor who has appeared in notable works such as ‘Honey Boy’ and ‘A Quiet Place’ among others.
The released photo recreating the album cover of ‘DREAMIN’ WILD’ shows young Donnie and Joe striking a pose with guitars against a blue background. They are wearing matching white jumpsuits with collars up, reminiscent of Elvis Presley, who was a major sensation at the time. The necklaces visible at their chests and their expressions have been perfectly recreated in this shot.
The actual ‘DREAMIN’ WILD’ album was reissued in 2023 by the American label Light in the Attic Records. Additionally, Donnie & Joe Emerson released their first studio-recorded single in 30 years, SEARCHING b/w FINALLY FOUND SOMEONE, in October 2024.
Dreamin’ Wild
Director, Writer, and Producer: Bill Pohlad (Love & Mercy: Melinda’s Melody)
Starring: Casey Affleck, Noah Jupe, Zooey Deschanel
2022 / USA / Color / 2.35:1 / 5.1ch / 111 min / G / English
Original Title: Dreamin’ Wild
Distribution and Promotion: SUNDAE
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Release Date: January 31, 2025, in theaters nationwide, including TOHO Cinemas Shinjuku.
