Johnny Knoxville Shines in Heartfelt New Role in Sweet Dreams Trailer (Exclusive)

Johnny Knoxville, best known for his outrageous antics in Jackass, takes on a surprising and heartfelt role in the upcoming movie Sweet Dreams. Directed by Lije Sarki (The Peanut Butter Falcon), the film showcases Knoxville’s dramatic range as he portrays Morris, a man facing the consequences of his troubled past while seeking redemption.

A Journey of Second Chances

In Sweet Dreams, Knoxville’s character struggles to rebuild his life as he navigates recovery at the Sweet Dreams recovery center. However, when the facility is threatened with closure and put up for auction, Morris reluctantly agrees to coach its misfit softball team of recovering addicts. The goal? To win a cash prize that could save the center and prove that anyone, no matter their past, can hit a home run in life.

The first trailer, revealed exclusively by PEOPLE, teases an emotional and comedic journey featuring a colorful ensemble cast, including Mo Amer, Theo Von, GaTa, Jay Mohr, Bobby Lee, and Kate Upton. Knoxville describes the experience of working with the comedic-heavy cast as “wild and off-the-wall,” adding levity to the film’s powerful themes of addiction and recovery.

Real-Life Recovery, Real-Life Stories

One of the most compelling aspects of Sweet Dreams is its authenticity. Many members of the cast and crew are recovering addicts themselves, bringing a raw and genuine perspective to the story. Knoxville highlights their incredible resilience:

“They fought the dragon, got it under control, and now are living their lives,” he says. “It might be the least easy thing you ever do. But if you’re struggling, you can get your life back.”

Knoxville’s character mirrors this fight, as Morris battles his own demons to reclaim his life and his relationship with his daughter.

A Personal Connection

The film’s emotional core hits particularly close to home for Knoxville. His eldest child worked as a crew member on the set and even lent her voice to key scenes. Knoxville reveals that listening to his daughter read a heartfelt message during filming made him tear up every time:

“No acting involved there, just a father crying at the sound of his daughter’s voice as she reads a heartbreaking message to him.”

Release Date and Anticipation

Sweet Dreams promises to be a moving blend of heart, humor, and hope. With its focus on redemption, the power of community, and second chances, the film is shaping up to be a must-watch.

Mark your calendars—Sweet Dreams hits theaters on April 12 and will be available digitally on April 16. Prepare to laugh, cry, and root for a group of underdogs proving that even the most broken among us can still dream big.

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