Exploring the Complexities of Desire in “Dreams (Sex Love)”

Introduction

The cinematic landscape is often a mirror reflecting the intricacies of human emotions and relationships. Dag Johan Haugerud’s latest film, “Dreams (Sex Love),” which recently premiered at the 2025 Berlin Film Festival, delves into the labyrinth of teenage desire, identity, and the often tumultuous journey of self-discovery. Winning the prestigious Golden Bear, this film is not just a narrative about first love; it is a profound exploration of how dreams-both literal and metaphorical-shape our lives.

The Premise: A Journey of Self-Discovery

At the heart of “Dreams (Sex Love)” is Johanne, a 17-year-old navigating the complexities of adolescence during the global COVID-19 pandemic. This backdrop is not merely a setting; it serves as a catalyst for Johanne’s introspection and emotional growth. Raised by her mother, Kristin, and grandmother, Karin, Johanne’s life is steeped in familial love yet marked by the isolation that the pandemic imposed. This isolation allows her to cultivate a rich inner life, leading to a profound exploration of her feelings and desires.

The film opens with a poignant scene that sets the tone for Johanne’s journey. As she grapples with her burgeoning feelings for her new French teacher, also named Johanna, viewers are drawn into a world where the lines between admiration and infatuation blur. This relationship, complicated by the teacher-student dynamic, serves as a focal point for the film’s exploration of desire and the ethical dilemmas that accompany it.

The Role of Dreams in Human Experience

Haugerud’s narrative is steeped in the philosophical inquiry of dreams-how they influence our waking lives and shape our perceptions of reality. The film poses critical questions: How do our dreams inform our passions? How do they affect our judgments of others? In a world increasingly threatened by authoritarianism and societal constraints, the film suggests that our dreams are both personal and collective, intertwined with the aspirations and fears of those around us.

Johanne’s journey is emblematic of this struggle. As she navigates her feelings for Johanna, she is also confronted with the societal expectations and judgments that come with her desires. The film’s exploration of these themes resonates deeply in today’s context, where young people often find themselves at the intersection of personal dreams and societal norms.

A Narrative Rich in Complexity

Haugerud employs a variety of storytelling techniques to enrich the narrative. Extensive voiceover narration provides insight into Johanne’s thoughts, while a symphonic score by Anna Berg elevates the emotional stakes. The film’s visual language, characterized by poetic imagery, amplifies the emotional weight of Johanne’s experiences. This multifaceted approach allows viewers to engage with the film on both an intellectual and emotional level.

The relationship between Johanne and Johanna is portrayed with nuance. While their attraction is palpable, it remains unconsummated, which may alleviate discomfort for some viewers. Instead, the film focuses on the emotional and psychological ramifications of their connection. Johanne’s infatuation is expressed through her writing, particularly in a novella she shares with her grandmother, which becomes a source of tension and reflection for her family.

Intergenerational Perspectives on Desire

The film also delves into the intergenerational dynamics of desire and understanding. Kristin and Karin’s reactions to Johanne’s writing reveal their own struggles with societal norms and personal expectations. Karin, a published poet, grapples with the implications of Johanne’s romanticism, while Kristin initially fears for her daughter’s emotional well-being. However, as the narrative unfolds, both women begin to recognize the value of Johanne’s experiences, leading to a deeper understanding of the complexities of love and desire.

This exploration of intergenerational perspectives is reminiscent of classic coming-of-age narratives, yet Haugerud’s approach is refreshingly contemporary. The film does not shy away from the uncomfortable truths of desire, instead opting to confront them head-on. This willingness to engage with difficult topics sets “Dreams (Sex Love)” apart from more conventional narratives that often seek to simplify complex emotions.

The Impact of Sharing Dreams

One of the film’s central themes is the transformative power of sharing dreams. Once Johanne’s feelings are articulated through her writing, they take on a life of their own, subject to interpretation and misinterpretation by those around her. This dynamic is poignantly illustrated in a scene where Kristin meets Johanna in a café, seeking to understand the nature of her daughter’s feelings. The conversation reveals the complexities of desire, as Johanna navigates her own feelings while attempting to maintain professional boundaries.

Haugerud’s exploration of this theme resonates with the broader human experience. Dreams, once shared, can lead to unexpected consequences, shaping not only the dreamer’s reality but also the perceptions of those who encounter them. This idea is particularly relevant in today’s digital age, where personal narratives are often shared and scrutinized in public forums.

A Reflection on the Nature of Dreams

“Dreams (Sex Love)” ultimately invites viewers to reflect on the nature of dreams and their role in shaping our identities. Haugerud’s film serves as a reminder that living and dreaming are not mutually exclusive; rather, they are intertwined aspects of the human experience. The film’s conclusion, which sees Johanne seeking professional help to make sense of her feelings, underscores the importance of understanding and processing our dreams in a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming.

In this way, “Dreams (Sex Love)” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling. It encourages viewers to embrace their dreams, confront their desires, and engage in the complex conversations that shape our lives. As Johanne embarks on her journey of self-discovery, she embodies the universal struggle of seeking connection and understanding in a world that often feels disconnected.

Conclusion

In a cinematic landscape often dominated by formulaic narratives, “Dreams (Sex Love)” emerges as a poignant exploration of desire, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. Through its rich storytelling and nuanced character development, Haugerud’s film invites viewers to reflect on their own dreams and the impact they have on their lives. As it opens in select U.S. theaters on September 12, audiences are encouraged to engage with this thought-provoking narrative that resonates deeply in today’s world.