American Dreamer Poster

American Dreamer 1984

★ 6.224 votes105 min📅 1984-10-26

"She was an ordinary housewife until her trip to Paris turned into an extraordinary adventure."

In *American Dreamer (1984)*, directed by Rick Rosenthal, an unassuming American housewife's mundane Parisian vacation takes a surreal twist when she's struck by a car and wakes up believing she's Rebecca Ryan, a glamorous international spy from a novel.

Director: Rick Rosenthal

Cast

JoBeth Williams
JoBeth Williams
Cathy Palmer
Tom Conti
Tom Conti
Alan McMann
Giancarlo Giannini
Giancarlo Giannini
Victor Marchand
Coral Browne
Coral Browne
Margaret McMann
James Staley
James Staley
Kevin Palmer
Christopher Daniel Barnes
Christopher Daniel Barnes
Kevin Palmer, Jr.
Huckleberry Fox
Huckleberry Fox
Karl Palmer
Jean Rougerie
Jean Rougerie
Don Carlos
Pierre Santini
Pierre Santini
Inspector Klaus
Léon Zitrone
Léon Zitrone
Ivan Stranauvlitch

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Dreamer (1984) about?

A routine trip to Paris for American housewife Cathy Palmer becomes anything but ordinary when she's hit by a car and wakes up believing she's Rebecca Ryan, a fictional international spy. As she navigates the glamorous yet dangerous world of espionage, Cathy must piece together her fragmented identity while questioning what's real and what's imagined.

Who directed American Dreamer?

Rick Rosenthal, known for his work in television and film, directed *American Dreamer*. The movie showcases his knack for blending comedic and action-packed elements into a cohesive, engaging narrative.

Who stars in American Dreamer?

The film features JoBeth Williams as Cathy Palmer, Tom Conti as her supportive husband, Giancarlo Giannini as a charming but enigmatic stranger, and Coral Browne as a formidable antagonist.

Is American Dreamer (1984) worth watching?

While not a blockbuster, *American Dreamer (1984)* is a charming and offbeat adventure that fans of lighthearted '80s romps and spy comedies will enjoy. Its unique premise and Williams' charismatic performance make it a hidden gem worth exploring, even if it never quite achieves cult classic status.

How long is American Dreamer?

The runtime of *American Dreamer* is 105 minutes, offering a brisk and entertaining escape into its quirky narrative.

About American Dreamer (1984) — When a Paris trip turns a housewife into a spy

In *American Dreamer (1984)*, directed by Rick Rosenthal, an unassuming American housewife's mundane Parisian vacation takes a surreal twist when she's struck by a car and wakes up believing she's Rebecca Ryan, a glamorous international spy from a novel. JoBeth Williams leads the cast with magnetic charm as Cathy Palmer, a woman whose identity unravels into a dizzying mix of espionage, romance, and dark comedy, all set against the romantic backdrop of 1980s Paris. This genre-blending adventure explores themes of self-discovery, the allure of escapism, and the thin line between reality and fiction, wrapped in a playful yet suspenseful narrative that keeps viewers guessing whether Cathy's transformation is real or a fever dream.

With Giancarlo Giannini and Coral Browne adding international flair as eccentric allies and foes, the film balances wit, action, and heart in a way that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly offbeat. The movie's vibrant energy and unexpected twists make it a cult favorite for fans of '80s adventure-comedy romps, offering a delightful escape into a world where ordinary meets extraordinary.