Alex's Dream | Comedy Short about Social Anxiety Starring Alex Lawther

Alex (Alex Lawther, 'End of The F***ing World) arrives uninvited to a party and after a set of excruciating interactions with other guests (Emma Corrin, Chris New, Simon Manyonda), is forced to recount a memorable dream he has had. A meditation on oneiric experience in cinema, mental health, talking dogs and fishermen.
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Alex's Dream
Directed by Jack Cooper Stimpson
www.jcooperstimpson.com
"A winsomely odd story about social anxiety and the transcendent meaning of dreams, Jack Cooper Stimpson’s debut narrative short Alex’s Dream is a charming comedy with its heart in the right place. Following titular 20-something Alex, as he finds himself overdressed at a private party, he stumbles through a series of slightly surreal situations, always unsure of what to do with himself. The awkward humor of the interactions are perfectly captured by Alex Lawther’s (The End of the F***ing World) pleasantly neurotic lead performance, as we find ourselves strangely immersed in this world of first-time meetings and stunted conversations.
Reluctantly answering his friend Archie’s “call to action” - to help him out with a girl (Emma Corrin, The Crown) - we join our insecure hero as he’s introduced to the other party guests and eventually persuaded to share a personal tale from his subconsciousness. He’s feeling out of his depth, but at least he can always rely on the simple, but profound wisdom of the “talking“ dog he just met…
Alex’s Dream is impressive for many reasons, but one of the first things that stands out in the short is its impressive cast. Lead actor Alex Lawther made a name for himself in the Netflix series The End of the F***ing World and has also appeared in an episode of Black Mirror and films including The Imitation Game and Goodbye Christopher Robin. While fellow party-goers include a room full of on-the-rise British acting talent, most notably Emma Corrin, appearing on-screen two-years before she’d grab headlines as Princess Diana in Series Four of The Crown.
Asked about his involvement in Alex’s Dream and the difference between working on a low-budget short and a TV show, Lawther explains that “there isn’t an awful lot of difference between the mediums”, adding that “sometimes it’s nice to film a whole story in a day - and sometimes it’s nice to spend months with that story.”
In our interview with writer/director Stimpson, the filmmaker admits that it was certainly a bonus to have well-known faces in his short, in terms of getting attention, but he was also keen to point out that the most important aspect is whether each actor is right for the role. Stimpson knew that Lawther had the right sensibility for the character, labelling him a “wonderfully sensitive and precise actor”, before adding that he thinks “he’s so good at balancing the comedy of the film with the wacky kind of dream scape of it.”
There’s a certain “quirkiness” to Alex’s Dream, which Stimpson manages to convey in a way that lends the short a unique sensibility, The framework of the film itself is a familiar story about young people at a party, but the trick is that in-between this classical structure, most situations and interactions feel ever so slightly left of center. As Stimpson admits, the plot “starts off almost formulaic. We [think we] know how this is gonna go. He walks in with his best friend, his best friend wants to talk to a girl, we think that the girl is going to become a big part of the narrative, and they’re going to sort of fall in love” - until things take an unexpected turn.
Alex’s Dream eventually leaves the viewer with more questions than answers but in a good way. It invites us to reflect for ourselves and maybe even think about the last dream we weren’t able to shake, even though it might not be clear what it exactly meant. [Continue the review on shortoftheweek.com]” - S/W Curator Georg Csarmann
Written and Directed by
Jack Cooper Stimpson
Produced by
Giannina Rodriguez Rico and Jack Cooper Stimpson
Executive Produced by
Stefan Allesch Taylor, Henry Rouquairol, Sabian Phippen
Co-Executive Produced by
Charles Kay, Aron Brar, Larry Sullivan
Cast
Alex Lawther - Alex
Emma Corrin - Beth
Chris New - Fisherman
Sam Haygarth - Archie
Simon Manyonda - Lost Man
Camille Ucan - Felicity
Lillie Flynn - Sam
Olivia Popica - Jessie
Harry the dog - Himself
Reproduced on this channel with the permission of the filmmakers.

[@odd0odium]

There is an Oscar coming in Alex Lawther's career. I know it. It's coming.

[@LRBeforeTheInternet]

Not if he just keeps on playing the same exact character in every single show and movie. Absolutely zero range.

[@nini-ps8wc]

@@LRBeforeTheInternet Excuse me sir, have you seen all his shows and movies? I mean, based on your comment I think not. But don't worry, you still have time to do it, hope you enjoy it ;)

[@LRBeforeTheInternet]

@@nini-ps8wc Well, I challenge you to name just 1 movie or series where he doesn't play an awkward introvert. Not to say he doesn't do it well, I'm simply saying that's all he's really done, as those are the roles he seems to be hired for, even when Alex played Christopher Robin he was still an odd duck. I'm guessing, and not to be rude, but you're most likely just a young person with a crush. Alex seems to be rather popular with a younger generation than my own. Although I will say, I did enjoy watching the first season of "The End of the F***ing World", which I think he plays the best version of his awkward introvert character. LOL :)

[@nini-ps8wc]

@@LRBeforeTheInternet I respect your opinion, but you didn't answer my question: did you really see all of his projects? or name me which ones you have seen so I can talk to you about it. And yes i'm young and admire him and don't try to make me less relevant for that please, because it actually lets me know what I'm talking about. And i'm glad you saw teotfw :)

[@LRBeforeTheInternet]

@@nini-ps8wc No, I have not seen his entire body of work, considering how difficult such a task would be, however, I have seen him in all of his major roles since the "Imitation game", and a few other bit parts, although, I do have access to clips on KZbin from other roles he's played, and as previously stated, he always plays an awkward introvert. Now it's your turn to accept my challenge if you're able and willing. :)

[@theyluhvvmel]

this is so underrated alex is such a good actor

[@ritojamaity1067]

Can we all just agree that the end of the fucking world is the most beautiful yet the most underrated show on netflix 😍

[@Dramadonia]

OMG!! IKR!!

[@eliasmendez9394]

Yeah but it's too short, and no season 3 ever.

[@miatatude5362]

EXACTLY right, there won't ever be something like it!!!

[@theoroost5823]

It's not underrated literally every 14 year old girl on twitter knows about it lmfao

[@pissman7777]

I LOVW THAT SO SHOW SO FUCKIGN MUCH

[@mycatstephanie586]

Alex Lawther is the only man I’d go straight for lol

[@bigblueberrymuffins1292]

Akaksksksksksks same

[@Taschip]

I'm already gay for Alex Lawther

[@thaspacegoatae3419]

Are you going to church? Are you gonna repent for this? And are you still with another woman? I wish I could fully heal you of these wicked desires and urges. You gotta hope for forgiveness, I'm sorry the devil did you in I'm sure you were innocent before.

[@gabriellec7813]

@@thaspacegoatae3419 I hope it's sarcasm.

[@danicaberard6962]

@@thaspacegoatae3419 the fuc? I really hope this isn't how you actually feel cause if it is, you'll definitely be rotting in hell!

[@yukononun]

It's a good take on social anxiety, but to be honest it's also a good take on an introvert in a room filled with extroverts. It's an even better take on an autistic person in a room filled with neurotypical people (especially if they're extroverts). Everything he says or does (or doesn't do) is perceived as "weird" or considered against the norm, yet they're all apparently the perfect ones.

[@unnaturaldisaster1728]

omg yes

[@randomfandomcosplay7683]

I love alex lawther he deserves some bigger roles in movies he likes playing small sub roles. I suggest watch the translators best movie where he is the main character!

[@oneloops1233]

Also Departure

[@owenchoweb6068]

The eerie, incoherent sounds that come with the ocean was a nice touch to complement the overwhelming feeling that anxiety often presents. It’s like being trapped, isn’t it? Our thoughts drowning themselves, in a way. That’s my interpretation of it. Great acting, Alex! No award could praise you for your ability. And the people who made this definitely brought it to life.

[@whenthesunhitsssss]

he is such an amazing actor it’s insane, really hope to see him in more stuff like this!! 🖤

[@imogentravis7212]

"What are we performing later?" "Euthanasia" Had me dying 😭😭(2:42)

[@Floating_Thoughts]

So relatable and so hard to watch if you have anxiety

[@jonaseggen2230]

It's kind of hard to watch even without anxiety to actually. I know a few people with anxiety, but all of us can relate to this as we have all felt awkward at times, and when we were young we did it all the time. Most of us at least. People with anxiety are in my experience often sensitive, sympathetic, don't brag or take up to much space, and considerate and caring. Wish you a great spring and summer, take care and all the best.

[@notabigdeal7785]

Good acting, Alex! The discomfort we palpable to me, but the laughter makes it much easier to deal with. Thanks for this.

[@sylvie6936]

He’s literally such a sweetheart

[@Caeljharden]

Aw I recognize him.. He played the pedo in the “Shut Up And Dance” episode of Black Mirror. That episode fucked me up big time lol.

[@alandathompson6037]

Did you watch him in the end of the fucking world?

[@JustinLHopkins]

He’s been in several movies. Very talented.

[@imanp2757]

@@JustinLHopkins this short film is also his own project for mental heart charity, hes using his talent for goods 🥰

[@jonaseggen2230]

That episode fucked us all up. Still hurts thinking about it, but what a great acting he did in that one, Imagine going like, "yes I can do this, be that guy".

[@RoyalCrown8]

Ugh, how come Emma Corrin is so lovely? Plus, Alex Lawther is doing great too!

[@Bizcochito.96]

The dog deserves an Oscar too lol

[@ivanperez4627]

He should be protected at all cost 🥺

[@stickycherry96]

I’m pathetically in love with this man 💕

[@jonaseggen2230]

I would to, if I was a woman or gay. He is absolutely amazing.

[@armaan.kepnes]

Alex Lawther and Emma Corrin in one place😱 Can you imagine?

[@robinh4]

Thank you for crediting the dog in the end credits. A lot of filmmakers don't. I can't be the only one who wants to know the dog's real name lol. EDIT: I just finished the end of the credits. Now I'm sad! But, loved the short. Great job all involved.

[@bye2107]

For a socially anxious person a mirror is comfort, when i look at a bunch of people i see scary humans who I don’t trust and when i look in the mirror i see a familiar face who doesn’t judge me and who i can trust with all my secrets.

[@ThatPurpleMoustache]

He's the guy in the end of the fucking world, right? Is he gonna be typecast as the awkward guy forever now?

[@ArcadianWizard]

Feel bad, poor guy

[@JustinLHopkins]

He’s been in quite a few things and no he doesn’t always play the same part.

[@pariahajiabolfath6977]

wait hes not awkward

[@KaylaaJoii]

he’s not awkward in the movie freak show

[@eliasmendez9394]

Les traducteurs one of his last movie, not a awkward at all, friend. Have a look at it

[@ebb632]

'What are we performing later?' 'Euthanasia'

[@patrickbatemangigafemcell6565]

im in love with alex lol

[@99xara99]

"What are we performing later?" "Euthanasia" ...right 😂😂😂 I'm dead

[@bigblueberrymuffins1292]

Omg he’s to precious I can’t ahh 🥺🥺

[@clarus.mp3]

Emma Corrin’s acting is the GOAT. ⭐️

[@Marcel_Audubon]

didn't you make yourself cringe when you typed GOAT? we all cringed when we read it.

[@narutokunn]

Man this to tooooo relatable. Sadly. I've spoken the lines he did on multiple occasions. Damn

[@kaz5463]

i love every work that i watch that has alex lawther

[@hobistinyheartbag]

I want him and PJ (KickThePj) make a project together so freaking bad

[@canickine2984]

OMGGG YES PLS

[@mynameiseden6127]

At 4:28 I was like "I don't understand.... oh that's bc they aren't speaking English... why isn't it translated ?... WAIT THIS IS FRENCH- but WAIT IM FRENCH TOO- but I still didn't understand what they said lol

[@Taschip]

That's because he was pretending to speak French lol

[@dawnb2125]

I'm not French but I know they were comparing the guys to Laurel and Hardy, an old comedy team...

[@gabriellec7813]

@@Taschip the girls were speaking in french. I am french and they said : "Regarde ces deux cons Je sais on dirait une mauvaise version de Laurel et Hardy Laurel et Hardy étaient plus beaux"

[@gabriellec7813]

Je trouve qu'elles parlent bien français...

[@joaquimdantas63]

The girls said in French: "- Look at these two idiots/dumb asses. | - They look as a bad new version of Laurel & Hardy. | - Laurel & Hardy were prettier." Methinks they, the girls, were being unfair, to say the least.

[@dominiquepocopio777]

I love emma corrin so much omfg

[@ulasbostanc8212]

Alex lawther is the new icon

[@tossca]

Thank youu ahh I've been looking for this 😭❤

[@5hargreevesapologist]

I love Alex so much

[@emmadxt]

alex is a very good actor wow

[@nowheretrisha]

whoooppp Emma Corrin and Alex in one screen!! 🙌

[@milliebang6963]

Thank you 🙏🏼 I hoped to watch this film 😭😭(crying a lot)

[@mungoslast3459]

1:30 I’m the dog the first time I ever saw Alex in a movie (The Imitation Game)

[@raywinny]

wow Alex Lawther herreee

[@colacocapezcado1]

Awesome Actors, Good Cinematoprahy, Great Sound, Weak story... I don't really feel his social anxiety in here, I think it shows only a few points of having that disorder.

[@jimenapalacios9006]

He is so handsome!!!

[@Is-lk9fd]

James and Princess Diana 🔥🥰

[@yousseftawfik5423]

Lol its james in we are in the fucking world and the princess diana in the crown

[@eliasmendez9394]

No no, he didn't appear in the crown kmao

[@yousseftawfik5423]

@@eliasmendez9394 no I mean he is from other series not the crown

[@eliasmendez9394]

@@yousseftawfik5423 yess he's been several movies / series

[@abeltesfaye_]

He was soooo fantastic in Black Mirror!

[@kAt-jf4vq]

I love you so much alex . I love you

[@Logan-dn6uv]

He made Freak Show 2017❤

[@efeso511]

he’s too cute to function 😍

[@ma.donica2553]

Omy Alex ❤️🥺

[@palmedor7707]

Emma Corrin, i adore you

[@susheelindulkar]

Isn't that the actor from the movie Ghost Stories? He is really good.

[@t0adstoolll]

Yeah he is! He was also great in the show “The end of the f***ing world”, he’s an amazing actor. Absolutely live Alex Lawther!

[@feliledes]

This short is so coool i love it

[@myfavoriteactors369]

Alex 💓💕

[@KaylaaJoii]

i love him so much

[@palmedor7707]

French talking emma corrin !

[@stlkngyomom]

Robert Waggoner : Lucid Dreaming Gateway to Inner Self.

[@mileycyrusfan4ever21]

this was great! super funny

[@notosamay]

End of the fucking world ❤️❤️

[@ihatespeds]

I can’t believe that Teotfw season 3 is coming out on February!

[@Cicaa]

For real?!

[@ihatespeds]

@@Cicaa oh wait I think they cancelled it , maybe not?

[@Cicaa]

@@ihatespeds I have no idea so that's why I'm asking haha I thought I heard that they didn't plan on making a third season but I hope I'm wrong.

[@scooblion9967]

Dogs got it in the bag.🐕🤧

[@puasviolentas]

OMGGG IS DECLAN MCKENNA 😱😱

[@feliledes]

My pretty boy , Alex lawther is very very cute and talent

[@sn0wyv1bes36]

I miss episodes of teotfw :(

[@Marcel_Audubon]

this short shoulda gone in another direction - they were almost there when Chris was taking his waders off, but then they turned back to the predictable

[@yourbarista4154]

I love the tall guy! I almost turned it off but then he popped on the screen and made the movie in my opinion. The other guy is real good to I just didn’t like a lot of the way they wrote him.

[@like247_]

kangen, ada kabar terbarunya dia gak sih? susah banget nyari info

[@etaxu8886]

Could anyone please tell me the two sentences they said from 07:30 to 07:40😭Cant hear clearly😭HELP!!

[@t0adstoolll]

At 7:30 Alex said, “Like the waders don’t fit?” And at 7:40 he said “Why don’t you just take the waders off?”

[@inigobantok1579]

Holy crap that's Emma corrin ehh

[@porkio192]

RIP Harry the dog :(

[@l.raquel7551]

I thought the whole shortfilm was the dream

[@turidoth]

Could play a young newt Scamander

[@shortoftheweek]

yes

[@andreaescribacastillo9915]

Amazing

[@mileycyrusfan4ever21]

harry the dog

[@rae888-bot]

i really don't mean to objectify this piece was truly amazing but alex lawther with a beard 🤤

[@user-xx7bp4mv2h]

알렉스 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂❤

[@RafGonzatto]

Nice

[@bbonifacio5384]

Beginners reference?

[@durasaxon5131]

Okay Cool Kids these days! (Lol)

[@zakariachail]

Where can i watch a movie

[@prasannagurung9673]

Relatable that's all I am saying

[@preetimakhloga8915]

is this a movie or just a video?

[@t0adstoolll]

Just this short!

[@mihoando3813]

(please don´t reply if youŕe not my friend Alex...) Alex! You better get on with your studies na nga..... - from Ate Tam....

[@5hargreevesapologist]

Alex Lawther is the only man I would like to have my children with.

[@hangarlife1684]

I want to license this film....can someone connect me to the rights holder?

[@lynieshagaule6668]

What

[@sammy9836]

Omggggg 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@tinjutkin]

04:17 can someone tell me what girls are saying?

[@joaquimdantas63]

The girls said in French: "- Look at these two idiots/dumb asses. | - They look as a bad new version of Laurel & Hardy. | - Laurel & Hardy were prettier." Methinks they, the girls, were being unfair, to say the least.

[@odd0odium]

Princess Diana

[@theotherway1639]

Thanks. I also found the small book "30 Days to Reduce Anxiety", by Harper Daniels, to be a good resource.

[@jukx5892]

self promo?

[@emmapalacios5594]

I find the pauses in dialogue realistic but they take my out of the story

[@wepynatalano4562]

Chameleon.....

[@greenumbralla7438]

❤️❤️❤️

[@JohnSmith-wi4xo]

I like him as an actor. But he’s always playing the same kind of roles.

[@nini-ps8wc]

Bro, did you see him in the movies Freak Show, Les Traducteurs (shook) or x+y?? He proved us that he can play any role, but I agree with you, I hope he has more diversity in his roles in the future.

[@armaan.kepnes]

@@nini-ps8wc there's this drama film that I can't remember the name of where he played gay

[@lamuertajoven6869]

@@armaan.kepnes Depature

[@paulinoregon7538]

that has to be the most boring awkward party ever. was that the point??

[@callsign_lurk]

why is this video skinny

[@sendhelpuser1335]

Loll what

[@asei2177]

:)

[@isabelpeterson2721]

Jesus Christ is our lord and savior

[@emma22194]

oh he's so--- I love him since his work on Black Mirror