Director Alex Woo of “In Your Dreams” Instructs on How to Illustrate Baloney Tony


Netflix’s *In Your Dreams* presents a delightful new animal companion: Baloney Tony, brought to life by Craig Robinson’s voice. Baloney Tony, a plush giraffe, is the beloved toy of young Elliot, voiced by Elias Janssen. Though he is well-worn, with one eye missing and a floppy neck, Elliot treasures filling him with baloney. Conversely, Elliot’s sister Stevie, voiced by Jolie Hoang-Rappaport, loathes Baloney Tony and his baloney-stuffed pouch, concealing him beneath the fridge prior to the story’s start. Nevertheless, during a dream adventure, Stevie and Elliot reconnect with Baloney Tony, who possesses the ability to walk, talk, and even emit laser farts in the dream realm.

In a Say More interview with Mashable’s Belen Edwards, director Alex Woo revealed that Baloney Tony was influenced by his own childhood experiences. Woo recounted a tale about a Santa Bear gifted to him by his aunt, which was marred by a blood stain from his brother, prompting them to refer to it as “Butthole Bear.” Despite its unfortunate state, his brother cherished it, emphasizing the connection we share with our plush toys, regardless of their disheveled appearance. Woo also detailed how to illustrate Baloney Tony, drawing inspiration from inexpensive stuffed animals available at fairs or arcade games.

For further insights into *In Your Dreams*, check out Woo’s complete Say More interview on YouTube, where he additionally demonstrates how to sketch more characters from the film. *In Your Dreams* is currently available for streaming on Netflix.