We all have dreams. In some ways, that’s what it means to be human. Sometimes those dreams are realized and sometimes they aren’t. Often, it takes years and many different paths to realize your dreams. In the new film, Dreamin’ Wild, we see a tale of two brothers whose dreams took decades to be realized.

The film appeared in festivals in 2022 but opens in theaters on August 4. In it, we meet Don (Casey Affleck) and Joe Emerson (Walton Goggins). As teens in the 1970s, they formed a musical group and recorded an album. That led to a solo career, of sorts, for Don, but decades later it hadn’t landed them a career in music.

As we open in 2011, Don and his wife, Nancy (Zooey Deschanel), are trying to manage a recording studio, playing small band gigs to make ends meet. Don is still getting plenty of support from his father (Beau Bridges), who has long tried to help his son achieve his musical dreams.

When Matt Sullivan (Chris Messina) reaches out, letting Don and Joe know their album from decades ago has found new life, it’s the beginning of a new musical journey. Can they finally realize their dream and find success in music?

This film has a strong cast and some beautiful original music from the brothers. Affleck is solid in the lead role, while Deschanel, Goggins and Bridges are great in supporting roles. This is a tale of someone who never gave up and finally had their dream realized in a way they didn’t expect.

I was drawn into the story, as crafted by Stephen Kurutz and Bill Pohlad, based on true events. The direction from Pohlad is also solid. I particularly enjoyed the flashback sequences, showcasing Noah Jupe and Jack Dylan Glazer as a young Don and Joe. It helps offer an emotional beat that pulls you in.

We’re in a season of larger-than-life blockbusters at the theaters. While those stories can be fun, it’s nice to sink into these smaller, personal tales. Dreamin’ Wild is inspirational and a fun ride.

Dreamin’ Wild is in limited theatrical release starting August 4.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.