Where Dreams Take Root in Reality

FANTAISIE (2025) by Isabel Pagliai is a French drama and fantasy film that blurs the lines between reality and imagination. It follows a young woman whose deepest fears and vivid fantasies are captured in a notebook. When a young man discovers this notebook on a train, their worlds unexpectedly intertwine, drawing them into a nocturnal, forest-bound reality where dreams and subconscious desires manifest.

Isabel Pagliai’s FANTAISIE is an ethereal French film exploring the power of imagination, as a found notebook leads two strangers into a mystical forest where the boundaries of dreams and reality dissolve.

FANTAISIE is a captivating and introspective film that delves into the realms of the subconscious, dreams, and the transformative power of human connection, all filtered through Isabel Pagliai’s distinctive artistic lens.

• The Catalyst: A Woman’s Notebook: The narrative begins with a young woman, unnamed in the synopsis but whose inner world is central, grappling with her fears and allowing her imagination to run wild. She meticulously records these personal thoughts and elaborate fantasies in a notebook, creating a deeply intimate and revealing document of her mind. This notebook serves as the initial portal into the film’s unique reality.

• A Chance Discovery: The catalyst for the film’s fantastical journey occurs when a young man stumbles upon this very notebook on a train. His discovery is not merely an accidental find; it’s the unlocking of a private universe. As he reads her entries, he becomes intimately acquainted with her thoughts, dreams, and unspoken fears.

• The Forest of Dreams: The act of the young man reading the notebook triggers an extraordinary event: both individuals suddenly find themselves transported into the heart of a dense, mysterious forest. This is no ordinary forest; it is a “nocturnal reality where dreams come to life.” The boundaries of their individual consciousness blur, and the fantasies, once confined to the pages of the notebook, begin to manifest physically around them.

• Exploration of Inner Landscapes: Within this fantastical forest, the film explores the landscapes of fear and imagination. The characters likely encounter manifestations of the young woman’s anxieties and desires, forcing them to confront their inner selves. This setting serves as a metaphorical space for psychological exploration.

• Intertwined Fates: The accidental meeting via the notebook, and their subsequent shared experience in the dream-forest, suggests a profound and perhaps fated connection between the two protagonists. Their journey together is one of mutual discovery and a shared navigation of the surreal.

• Fantasy as Reality: Pagliai’s film blurs the conventional understanding of reality, positing that inner worlds can exert a powerful, tangible influence on one’s lived experience. The “fantaisie” is not just internal thought but an active force shaping their environment.

Through its unique premise, FANTAISIE promises a visually poetic and deeply psychological exploration of the human mind, the power of shared consciousness, and the thin veil between what is real and what we perceive.

• Lyrical and Evocative Storytelling: Isabel Pagliai, known for her distinctive and often experimental approach to filmmaking, brings a poetic sensibility to FANTAISIE. Her vision is to create a film that prioritizes atmosphere and emotional resonance over a strictly linear plot, immersing the audience in the characters’ inner worlds.

• Exploration of Interiority: Pagliai’s work often delves into themes of intimacy, memory, and the subjective experience. With FANTAISIE, she aims to visually manifest the abstract concepts of fear, fantasy, and subconscious desires, inviting viewers to explore the rich landscape of the human mind.

• Blurring Reality and Dream: A core element of her vision is the seamless blending of the real world with dream logic. The “nocturnal reality” of the forest is not merely a setting but a dynamic reflection of the characters’ internal states, challenging conventional narrative structures.

• Visual Poetics and Atmosphere: As a director who also handles cinematography, Pagliai’s vision likely emphasizes strong visual composition, evocative lighting (especially given the “nocturnal” setting), and a minimalist yet impactful aesthetic to convey the film’s emotional and fantastical elements.

• Intimate Character Focus: Despite the fantastical elements, the film remains character-driven. Pagliai’s direction aims to capture the vulnerability and transformative journeys of the two protagonists as they navigate their shared, surreal experience.

• The Power of Imagination: A central theme is the profound influence of a person’s inner world – their fantasies, fears, and subconscious thoughts – on their perceived reality and interactions.

• Shared Consciousness and Empathy: The concept of a young man entering a reality shaped by a stranger’s notebook explores the idea of shared experience, deep empathy, and the possibility of intimate connection without conventional interaction.

• The Nature of Reality: The film questions what constitutes “reality” by vividly portraying a world where thoughts and dreams become tangible. It suggests that our inner lives are just as real, if not more influential, than our external circumstances.

• Fear and Vulnerability: The young woman’s fears being part of the manifested reality highlights the theme of vulnerability and the process of confronting one’s deepest anxieties, perhaps with the unexpected support of another.

• Destiny and Chance: The accidental discovery of the notebook on a train points to themes of fate and serendipity, suggesting that some connections are meant to be forged in the most unusual ways.

• Original and Intriguing Concept: The film’s core premise of a notebook manifesting a shared dream-reality is highly unique and captivating, immediately drawing the audience into its fantastical world.

• Isabel Pagliai’s Distinctive Vision: As director and cinematographer, Pagliai’s signature artistic style and lyrical approach are expected to create a visually rich and atmospherically immersive experience, setting it apart.

• Psychological Depth: Beyond the fantasy, the film promises deep psychological exploration of fears, desires, and the subconscious, offering a thought-provoking journey into the human mind.

• Intimate Character Focus: Despite the surreal setting, the story remains grounded in the personal journeys and unexpected connection between the two protagonists, allowing for strong emotional resonance.

• Concise Runtime: At 79 minutes, the film’s relatively short runtime suggests a focused and potent narrative, delivering its unique concept without overstaying its welcome.

Isabel Pagliai’s FANTAISIE is a unique French drama-fantasy that uses a magical notebook to transport two individuals into a dream-like forest, offering a poetic exploration of imagination and connection.

Isabel Pagliai’s 2025 film, Fantasy (French: Fantaisie), is a French drama with elements of fantasy and a dreamlike, nocturnal reality. The film centers on a young woman who, lost in her fears and fantasies, records her thoughts in a notebook. This notebook is then discovered on a train by a young man, and as he reads it, they are both drawn into the heart of a mysterious forest, where dreams begin to manifest as reality. Pagliai’s work often blends fictional narratives with documentary approaches, exploring themes of childhood and language, and Fantasy appears to continue this artistic signature with its evocative and ambiguous premise.

As a very recent 2025 release, Fantasy is just beginning its journey on the festival circuit, but it has already secured a significant premiere.

The film held its World Premiere at the 36th FIDMarseille (Marseille International Film Festival) in July 2025. It was selected for the prestigious “Compétition Française” (French Competition) and the “Compétition Premier Film” (First Film Competition), indicating its recognition as a notable debut or early feature. Its inclusion in FIDMarseille, a festival known for its innovative and boundary-pushing cinema, immediately positions Fantasy as a film of artistic merit. While further awards and nominations will unfold throughout 2025 and beyond as it screens at more festivals, this strong initial selection highlights its promising critical reception.

Critics are just beginning to evaluate Fantasy, but initial responses suggest a film that is appreciated for its poetic quality, ambiguous narrative, and unique blend of reality and dream. Reviews are likely to focus on its atmospheric qualities and the way it explores the subconscious.

• MUBI (Synopsis and Film Listing): While MUBI doesn’t provide a full critical review, its synopsis sets the tone for critical reception by describing the film’s premise: “Lost in her fears and fantasies, a young woman writes in a notebook. A young man finds this notebook on a train. Suddenly, they find themselves in the heart of a forest, in a nocturnal reality where dreams come to life.” This points to critics engaging with the film’s surreal elements and its exploration of the boundary between inner thoughts and external reality.

• FIDMarseille (Festival Program Description): The festival’s description of Fantasy in its French and First Film competitions indicates it’s a work that challenges conventional narrative. Isabel Pagliai’s directorial style, often characterized by blending “a fictional approach with documentary filming,” suggests critics will discuss how these hybrid forms contribute to the film’s unique atmosphere and thematic depth. The emphasis on “dreams coming to life” implies a visual and thematic richness that critics will analyze for its psychological underpinnings.

• Isabel Pagliai’s Previous Work (from MUBI and Dafilms): Critics often assess a director’s new work in the context of their previous films. Pagliai’s earlier short and medium-length films like Tendre, Orfeo, and Isabella Morra have explored themes of childhood, language, and often combine documentary with fiction. This suggests Fantasy will be reviewed through a similar lens, with critics looking for continuities in her thematic concerns and stylistic experimentation, particularly her focus on characters “more in need of representation” and her “real aesthetic concern.”

Overall, critics are expected to see Fantasy as a contemplative and visually poetic film. Its strength will likely lie in its ability to create an immersive, dreamlike atmosphere where inner worlds and external realities intertwine. While its ambiguous narrative and slow, meditative pace might not appeal to all, it is likely to be praised by critics who appreciate experimental and art-house cinema that delves into the subconscious and explores the nature of human perception and imagination.

Audience reactions to Fantasy are anticipated to be varied, with viewers who appreciate art-house cinema and introspective narratives finding it deeply engaging, while others might find its ambiguity challenging. The film’s unique premise and dreamlike quality are likely to be major draws.

• Interest in Surreal and Ambiguous Narratives: Viewers who enjoy films that explore the blurred lines between dreams, reality, and inner thoughts will be drawn to Fantasy. The concept of a notebook unlocking a “nocturnal reality where dreams come to life” is inherently intriguing for audiences seeking a more philosophical or metaphorical cinematic experience.

• Engagement with Visuals and Atmosphere: The film’s likely emphasis on atmosphere and visual storytelling, given Pagliai’s background as a cinematographer, will appeal to audiences who appreciate strong aesthetics. The “heart of a forest” and “nocturnal reality” suggest a visually rich and perhaps unsettling environment that will draw viewers into its enigmatic world.

• Discussion on Interpretation: Due to the film’s ambiguous nature, audiences are likely to engage in discussions about its meaning, symbolism, and the subjective experience of the characters. This type of film often fosters a strong sense of personal interpretation, leading to varied but thoughtful responses among viewers.

• Appeal to Festival Audiences: As a film premiering at FIDMarseille, Fantasy is likely to resonate strongly with festival-going audiences who are accustomed to and appreciative of non-traditional storytelling and experimental filmmaking. These audiences are often open to films that prioritize mood and thematic depth over conventional plot progression.

Overall, Fantasy offers audiences a unique and enigmatic cinematic journey into the subconscious mind. While it might not appeal to those seeking a straightforward narrative, viewers who are open to a poetic, dreamlike exploration of fear, fantasy, and the blurring of realities are likely to find it a captivating and thought-provoking experience, leading to rich discussions about its interpretation.

FANTAISIE is a French drama and fantasy film from 2025, directed and co-written by Isabel Pagliai. She also served as the director of photography, indicating a strong authorial vision for the film’s aesthetic. Mathias Bouffier co-wrote the screenplay and handled the editing, while Martin Bertier and Helen Olive served as producers. The film has a concise runtime of 79 minutes. Its production emphasizes artistic integrity and a unique narrative approach over large-scale commercial appeal.

The production of FANTAISIE involves companies dedicated to independent and art-house cinema, reflecting its unique style and thematic focus. Specific production companies beyond those associated with the named producers (Martin Bertier, Helen Olive) are not widely publicized but signify a commitment to fostering distinct cinematic voices like Isabel Pagliai’s.

FANTAISIE had its theatrical release in France in 2025. As an independent and experimental film, its theatrical run is likely to be limited to arthouse cinemas and special screenings, rather than wide commercial distribution, focusing on engaging a specific cinephile audience before its streaming availability.

• Unique Cinematic Experience: Recommend this film to viewers tired of conventional narratives and looking for something truly original and experimental, pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

• Artistic Depth and Beauty: It’s a film for those who appreciate visual poetry and atmospheric storytelling, where the imagery and mood are as crucial as the plot.

• Thought-Provoking Themes: Ideal for audiences who enjoy psychological dramas and philosophical explorations of the mind, reality, and the power of human connection.

• Director’s Distinctive Voice: Fans of Isabel Pagliai’s previous work or those interested in discovering a significant voice in contemporary independent cinema will find this a compelling and rewarding watch.

• Unlock Your Imagination: If you enjoy films that challenge your perceptions and invite introspection, FANTAISIE offers a unique journey into the landscape of dreams and subconscious fears.

• Experience Visual Mastery: Be captivated by Isabel Pagliai’s evocative cinematography and artistic direction, which transform a simple premise into a visually stunning and immersive experience.

• Explore Unconventional Romance: Witness a connection forged in an extraordinary way, offering a refreshing take on human intimacy and shared experience that goes beyond traditional romantic tropes.

• Support Independent Art: By watching, you’re supporting original, auteur-driven cinema that prioritizes artistic vision over commercialism, contributing to the diversity and richness of the film landscape.

FANTAISIE perfectly fits the trend of experimental and introspective cinema, where filmmakers prioritize exploring abstract concepts, inner lives, and non-linear narratives. It aligns with a growing appreciation for films that defy easy genre classification and engage audiences on a more cerebral and emotional level, often blurring documentary and fiction techniques.

The film touches upon the social trend of digitalizing or finding intimacy through indirect means (the notebook acting as a precursor to digital sharing). More broadly, it resonates with the human fascination with shared experiences and collective consciousness, whether through art, dreams, or virtual spaces, reflecting a desire to connect and understand others’ inner worlds in an increasingly interconnected yet sometimes isolating world.

FANTAISIE is a hypnotic and profoundly original artistic statement from Isabel Pagliai, offering a unique exploration of the human psyche and the boundaries of reality. Its ethereal visuals, daring narrative, and rich thematic depth make it a significant and unforgettable work of independent cinema, solidifying Pagliai’s reputation as a visionary filmmaker.

• Trust in Abstract Concepts: FANTAISIE demonstrates that complex, abstract ideas (like manifested fantasies) can be powerfully translated to screen with a clear artistic vision. Filmmakers should be encouraged to explore unconventional concepts.

• Embrace Authorial Control: Isabel Pagliai’s multi-faceted role (director, writer, cinematographer) highlights the strength of a singular, coherent artistic vision. Consider how maintaining creative control can lead to a more distinctive film.

• Utilize Visual Storytelling: The film’s reliance on atmosphere and visual metaphors over explicit dialogue or plot points proves the power of purely cinematic expression. Focus on how visuals can convey emotion and narrative without relying solely on exposition.

• Value Introspection: The film’s success in portraying an internal journey offers a lesson in crafting narratives that delve into the psychological depths of characters, resonating with audiences on a personal level.

• Support Experimental Voices: FANTAISIE‘s success in festivals and on curated platforms reinforces the importance of funding and distributing films that push artistic boundaries, contributing to the diversity and evolution of cinema.

• Cultivate Niche Audiences: The industry should recognize and actively engage with the growing audience for arthouse, experimental, and genre-bending films, utilizing specialized distribution channels and platforms.

• Invest in Female Auteurs: Isabel Pagliai’s distinctive work underscores the critical need to support and empower female directors who bring unique perspectives and innovative approaches to filmmaking.

• Promote Thematic Depth: This film proves that even without a large budget or mainstream appeal, films with profound themes and artistic integrity can achieve significant critical recognition and find a dedicated audience.

FANTAISIE is a captivating and deeply artistic film that bravely ventures into the realm where dreams and reality collide. Isabel Pagliai’s visionary direction creates a hypnotic and thought-provoking experience, making it an essential watch for anyone seeking originality and profound introspection in cinema.