“What Dreams May Come” derives its title from the “To be or not to be” speech in “Hamlet,” which is a reflection on meeting in dreams with loved ones who have already died, showing how they’re not entirely gone. The movie follows a similar theme, with Chris Nielsen (Robin Williams) and Annie Collins-Nielsen (Annabella Sciorra) having a great life with their two children. Tragically, the two children die in a car crash, and, years later, a car accident also claims Chris’ life, and he’s sent to Heaven, or at least a version of Heaven that materialized out of his imagination.
After Chris’ death, Annie dies by suicide. Rather than Heaven, she goes to a version of Hell that springs forth from her tormented psyche. Chris ventures to Annie’s Hell to save her and is ultimately able to bring her to Heaven with him. Even death isn’t enough to stop the love Chris has for his wife.
Sadly, the movie shares heartbreaking parallels to the tragic real-life story of Robin Williams, who died by suicide in 2014. However, “What Dreams May Come” does offer a hopeful outlook on what happens after death. The film suggests death isn’t truly the end, and, if nothing else, the love we all hold for our loved ones keeps them alive in some manner. It’s easy to see why such a film would resonate with Zelda Williams.
