HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL 2024 REVIEW! Most people feel that the American Dream is a reality. For others, as Ziyu Luo’s short film eludes, it’s merely an American Daydream.
Marilyn Yang (Jessica Lee) is living the American Dream—from her mother Hui’s (Yan Cul) perspective—as a physician in residence. Because Hui is undocumented, Marilyn’s life is tethered to her mother living in NYC Chinatown. Marilyn acts as her mother’s translator and takes care of everything as her mother hides from immigration services.
Marilyn now finds herself at a crossroads in life. She no longer wants to pursue medicine but acting instead. Marilyn has also fallen in love with a non-Chinese man, David (Juan Teisaire). Marilyn invites David to a family dinner with her mother and the other aunties and uncles, but Marilyn’s attempt to keep her plans low-key is quickly spoiled.

“Marilyn acts as her mother’s translator and takes care of everything as her mother hides from immigration services.”
For a somewhat heavy subject, writer/director Ziyu Luo keeps the story of Marilyn and her mother light. Luo explores the comedic moments of a mother and daughter trying to blend in. In the end, American Daydream is a heartfelt story of a mother and daughter. Deep down, a mother’s job is to prepare her children for adulthood, and that moment may have come too soon for the mother and passed long ago for Marilyn.
Director Luo beautifully uses Chinatown as the backdrop of her story, giving audiences a glimpse of this small section of New York City. She also showcased amazing performances by Jessica Lee and Yan Cul.
American Daydream is a poignant exploration of the complexities of the American Dream, particularly for immigrant families. Ziyu Luo deftly balances the film’s heavier themes with moments of lightness and humor, creating a heartfelt narrative about the bond between a mother and daughter. American Daydream film offers a touching glimpse into the struggles and sacrifices that often accompany the pursuit of dreams in America.
American Daydream screened at the 2024 Hollyshorts Film Festival.