'The Garden We Dreamed' Review: A Powerful Mexican Migrant Drama

Variety

by Guy Lodge

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

'The Garden We Dreamed,' directed by Joaquín del Paso, is a powerful Mexican migrant drama that weaves together environmental concerns and racial prejudice. The film follows a Haitian family as they navigate the dangerous landscape of logging camps in Mexico, struggling to integrate into a community already on the fringes of society. Through its stunning visuals and immersive sound design, the movie captures the tension between nature's tranquility and human destruction, offering a unique blend of survival thriller and magical realism. The story centers on Esther, Junior, and their two young daughters, who embark on a perilous journey to build a new life. As they attempt to carve out a home amidst the chaotic construction of logging camps, they face both environmental hazards and systemic racism from their fellow workers and local communities. The film's vivid cinematography by Gökhan Tiryaki transforms the lush Mexican forest into a character in its own right, alternating between paradise and a treacherous backdrop for the family's survival. Del Paso's narrative is elevated by its emotional depth and urgent human stakes. The performances, particularly by Nehemie Bastien as Esther and Faustin Pierre as Junior, bring raw authenticity to their roles, capturing the resilience and vulnerability of displaced migrants. The film's exploration of migration, identity, and belonging resonates deeply, offering a timely commentary on global displacement and environmental exploitation. With its intimate yet cinematic storytelling and lyrical visual style, 'The Garden We Dreamed' is a standout in contemporary migrant cinema. Its success at festivals like Berlinale cements its place as a must-watch for arthouse audiences seeking thought-provoking and visually stunning narratives. This film not only delivers an emotional punch but also invites viewers to reflect on the broader implications of migration, human rights, and our relationship with nature—making it a compelling choice for anyone interested in impactful storytelling.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/22/2026