I didn't expect Pixar's Dream Productions to tackle Nepo-Babies (but I kind of loved it)

The following contains spoilers for Dream Productions, now streaming on Disney+Dream Productions spends a surprising amount of time focused on Nepo-Babies in production, but I love their approach. In modern Hollywood, controversy has arisen over the concept of “Nepo-Babies”, i.e. creatives who got their start in the industry because of relatives who also work in the field. Due to the difficulty many face breaking into the entertainment field, nepotism ensures an easier career start and can be seen as an unfair advantage that only benefits wealthy newcomers to film, television and music.

Dream ProductionsThe story and ending poke fun at the type of people often accused of this status with Xeni. Played with smarmy overconfidence and artistic flair by Richard Ayoade, Xeni is one of the main characters of Dream Productions and a frequent source of comedy. Given the series' general approach to parodying the film industry, a Nepo-Baby character makes sense for the story. However, I didn't really expect the arc that Dream Productions gives him and how it highlights the double-edged sword that a Nepo-Baby can be in entertainment.

Dream Productions tackles Nepo-Babies with Xeni

Xeni's Nepo-Baby storyline is one of Dream Productions'More unexpected touches

Xeni is Dream productionthe opinion of Nepo-Babies, and offers a surprisingly compelling look at the flaws (and potentials) found in this type of creativity. Xeni is introduced as the director of Daydream at Dream Productions, with a preference for the kind of absurd visuals and unorthodox approach one might find in the independent film community. Despite his lack of experience and skill in the film business, he managed to get a place at the studio thanks to his family relationship with his “aunt”, the head of Dream Productions, Jean Dewberry.

Xeni is a deliberately frustrating characterwith his flawed and failed efforts to influence Paula's creations only causing more conflict for the team. I wasn't surprised by the Nepo-Baby comedy in Dream Productionsbut I was pleasantly surprised when Xeni actually revealed herself to have an inventive approach to the story, as well as an eye for emerging talent that matches what the aging Riley wants. The program never leaves aside the fact that Xeni is a Nepo-Baby, but highlights that he has a genuine passion for the artistic dissemination of the story, even if he only had access through family connections.

Dream Productions is more focused on Nepo-Babies than I expected

Xeni's arc is more important for Dream Productions Than I would ever expect

Xeni's status as Nepo-Babies ends up being a consistent element of her character and impacts the plot. I expected the jokes about Xeni being a Nepo-Baby to be an extension of that aspect of her character, but her security against Paula's frustrations end up being reversed in the third episode of Dream Productions. “Part 3: Romance!” ends with Paula and Xeni being blamed for Riley's sleepwalking and almost getting hurt. Paula shifts as much of the blame as she can to Xeni, who is criticized by Jean for her mistakes.

This scene is surprisingly dark, as Xeni's efforts to explain himself are thwarted by Jean, who reveals that she only allowed him to work at Dream Productions because her brother “begged” her to give him a job. This detracts from the artistic merit that Xeni actually brought to the production. This highlights how Xeni's family connections mean that her presence on set is permanently assumed to be unconnected to her real abilities. It's a surprisingly dual take on Nepo-Babies, arguing that they can get through the door, but they also have a target on their back.

Dream Productions has a surprisingly different take on Nepo-Babies

Dream Productions Gives Xeni a more interesting arc than most Nepo-Baby stories

From the inside outof Dream Productions has fun at the expense of Nepo-Babies in the entertainment industry, but I didn't expect the show to actually explore their situation. Xeni's arc in the series highlights how his connections and big ideas can lead him to success, but it does nothing to endear him to the team or prove he can direct a production. However, he realizes his flaws and risks his side job to help Paula. He is rewarded for this newfound empathy and genuine passion with the chance to direct, his confidence in improvisation and naturalistic acting helping Riley's big dance dream.

There is something to be said about the challenges faced by non-Nepo-Babys. Having established connections in an industry that is notoriously difficult to break into makes them easy targets for scorn and ridicule. Dream Productions doesn't forget that and never gives up on Xeni's failures. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how the show gave him a little redemptive arc and highlighted that he still has good ideas and a genuine passion for storytelling. From the Dream productionThe film's parody is a more human element that I think elevates the show.