Synopsis:
A nebbish (Dennis Christopher) from Chicago comes to California in search of sun and surf.

Genres, Themes, Actors, and Directors:

• Comedy
• Dennis Christopher Films
• Glynnis O’Connor Films
• Misfits
• Seymour Cassel Films
• Surfers

Review:
From beginning to end, this wannabe comedy contains unappealing characters, awful dialogue, unrealistic scenarios, and an instantly forgettable ensemble plot. I was astonished to find myself turned off by the eminently likeable Dennis Christopher:

and saddened to see one of my favorite young actresses — Glynnis O’Connor — reduced to playing a vapid surfer Betty named Corky.

In fact, I can’t even recommend this film to O’Connor fans, because it’s utterly depressing to see her trading in her previously smart, unusual roles for this one. While California Dreaming has a few diehard fans — check out some of the posts on IMDb, for instance — I suspect this is primarily because of its t&a factor more than anything else.

Redeeming Qualities and Moments:

• Good use of location shooting in Southern California
  

Must See?
No. While listed as a Sleeper in the back of Peary’s book, I recommend sleeping through this one instead.

Links:

• IMDb entry
• TV Guide Review