In his short film Dreamers, Frank Zanella delves into the risks and reasons why millions on the other side of the wall wanted to take their piece of the American dream.
The film tells the story of four young immigrants crossing the United States in the back of a truck. Each one is driven by their hope for a better future. As they huddle together, they share the first thing they’d do when they reach America.

“…driven by their hope for a better future.”
One man will hit the ground running, finding work as a gardener and working tirelessly for that dream. A young pregnant woman dreams of a cupboard full of food, while her boyfriend dreams of a house where they can raise their daughter. The fourth passenger is fleeing a troubled past, having left behind a father who was imprisoned for killing his mother.
Of course, a journey like this is fraught with danger. This one is no exception.
Coined by President Obama, Dreamers are young people, full of hope and looking for a better life. Filmmaker Frank Zenella tells their story, showing that every dreamer has their own reason for coming to America.
Dreamers is a simple film set entirely in the back of a semi. Its cast, which includes Jose Macias, Daniel Fernandez, Ana Harina Cano, and Iher Garza, gives touching performances. The short film is both dramatic and poignant, with a message to convey.