The Story

Set in 1947,

You've Gotta Have a Dream is a feature film that chronicles a group of young jazz musicians whose dream is to form a “really swingin’ big band.”

Unfortunately, things prove much more complicated when the community objects to the diversity of the band. Alliances form and lines are drawn. What follows is soul-searching, uplifting—and through song—our story illuminates forgiveness, healing, and unconditional love.

Through the lens of band director Mr. Herb Miller and the musicians of You've Gotta Have a Dream, we learn their journey through music isn’t about race, gender, or ability—it’s about the gifts of their cultures, blending together through music. healing and inspiring each other.

The film deals with many of the troubling personal and social issues of post WW II America. We see and feel the effects of the war on our main characters, both psychologically and emotionally. Families, friends, and interpersonal relationships are stretched, but through it all, they grow because of the unconditional love they learn to share for each other.

Executive Producer Rolland Jacks wrote the original story, the music & lyrics, and conceived the world of the You've Gotta Have a Dream and its characters, and the heartfelt arc of their stories. Co-directed by Emilio Palame and David Gutel the film is produced by Emilio Palame, Rolland Jacks, Donald Nguyen, and Kristen Brancaccio, with the screenplay co-written by Rolland, Emilio and David.