Jessica Chastain describes latest film ‘Dreams’ as ‘incredibly political’

Jessica Chastain has described her latest film ‘Dreams’ as “incredibly political”.

The 46-year-old actress stars in the drama, directed by Michel Franco, which explores immigration between Mexico and the United States, and she said despite U.S. president Donald Trump’s brutal approach to deportations since he was voted back into power again, she said she is “not going to give up on my country”.

Premiering in competition at the Berlin Film Festival last weekend, ‘Dreams’ follows Jennifer, a wealthy philanthropist played by Jessica, who falls for Fernando, a young Mexican ballet dancer portrayed by Isaac Hernández.

His character crosses the border into the US, leaving everything behind and narrowly escaping death, in order to be with her.

Speaking at the film’s press conference, Jessica said: “‘Dreams’ is incredibly political because of what’s happening right now in the United States.”

She appeared to be referencing immigration policies introduced during Donald Trump’s presidency, including mass deportations of undocumented people.

The actress added: “The film explores this relationship between the United States and Mexico and how, in some sense, they both need each other and have to learn to play fair.”

Discussing her views on the state of America, Jessica said: “I make my home in the U.S. because I am a hopeful person and I believe that you have to participate to create the environment, the culture, the society that you want.

“I’m not going to give up on my country, so I’d like to say there’s a lot of us there who are still quite hopeful and we’re fighting the good fight.”

Asked about the title ‘Dreams’ and whether the U.S. still represents that ideal, Michel, 44, said: “Do I believe in the American dream? I’d say not anymore. But let’s not forget it’s a country based on immigrants.”