Backstreet Dreams

1990 American film

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Theatrical release poster

Directed by	Rupert Hitzig, Jason O'Malley
Written by	Jason O'Malley
Screenplay by
Story by
Based on
Produced by	Rupert Hitzig
Starring	Brooke Shields, Jason O'Malley, Sherilyn Fenn
Narrated by
Cinematography	Steven Fierberg

Backstreet Dreams is a 1990 American drama film directed by Rupert Hitzig and Jason O'Malley. The film stars Brooke Shields, Jason O'Malley, and Sherilyn Fenn. It explores themes of family, love, and the challenges of raising a child with special needs.

Plot

The film follows Dean, played by Jason O'Malley, a young man from a troubled background who is trying to make a better life for himself and his family. Dean's life takes a dramatic turn when he discovers that his young son, Shane, is autistic. Struggling to understand and connect with his son, Dean's relationship with his wife, played by Sherilyn Fenn, becomes strained.

In an effort to help his son, Dean meets a therapist, played by Brooke Shields, who specializes in working with autistic children. Through her guidance, Dean learns how to communicate with Shane and begins to understand the unique ways in which his son experiences the world.

Cast

• Brooke Shields as Stevie
• Jason O'Malley as Dean
• Sherilyn Fenn as Lucy
• Burt Young as Angelo
• Tony Fields as Tony

Production

The film was produced by Rupert Hitzig and features a screenplay written by Jason O'Malley. The music for the film was composed by John Debney, and the cinematography was handled by Steven Fierberg.

Reception

Upon its release, Backstreet Dreams received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the performances, particularly that of Brooke Shields, while others felt the film's handling of autism was not as nuanced as it could have been. Despite this, the film has been noted for its attempt to bring attention to the challenges faced by families with autistic children.

Also see

• Brooke Shields filmography
• Autism in film
• Drama films of the 1990s
• Sherilyn Fenn