I have to admit to a certain bias concerning In a Dream, a documentary by Jeremiah Zagar about his father, Isaiah and his art and his family. I grew up in Philadelphia where Zagar lives and works and am familiar with some of his installations, so I may be more curious about the subject matter than most. That said, In a Dream presents a compelling portrait which should appeal to anyone interested in art and the psychology of creativity and the effect that creative forces can have on family.

The film originated from Jeremiah’s desire to document his father’s work their family life but evolves into an account of his parents’ current relationship troubles. The film weaves contemporary interviews with Isaiah and Julia with some old photos and film clips of their early life. One of the strongest themes involves Isaiah’s history of mental health issues which informs an understanding of both his creative passions and of his marital problems.

In a Dream is a well-crafted film that excels at showing the scale and intensity of Zagar’s mosaics.  In addition to documenting Zagar’s particular art, the film raises interesting questions about the nature of artistic impulses and the role mental health may play in driving these impulses.