Every great animated movie needs a scene-stealing sidekick, and in In Your Dreams, that honor belongs to Baloney Tony. He is loud, unpredictable, and impossible to ignore, a literal slice of talking lunchmeat who becomes the emotional and comedic MVP of the film. Brought to life by the inimitable Craig Robinson, Baloney Tony is destined for fan obsession, and the story behind his creation is just as unforgettable.
Born Under the Fridge, Raised on Sibling Love
During the special presentation, Robinson detailed how he connected to the character and made him more than just a punchline. Asked about Baloney Tony’s origins, Robinson admitted he leaned into improvisation and personal experiences.
“You know, we all do dream about dreaming. So it was, just to be a part of it was like, you know, something real. And Tony was just so funny and and and silly. And, I could see I I don’t know. I could see me as this crazy stuffed animal for some reason.”
That spontaneity is baked into the performance, but it is anchored by something real: Robinson’s relationship with his own family. The film, at its core, is about a sibling bond. And Robinson saw his opportunity to tap into his sibling dynamics.
RELATED: In Your Dreams Dares to Ask, “What If Dreams Don’t Come True?”
And, also, it is a love letter to to our brothers and sisters. You know? So because I have a younger brother and a older sister. So that was all real.
… my brother and I are – we’re relentless in teasing our sister with all love and faith, but it’s like, the the text messages like, she you can’t misspell a word in our text.
It’s over.”
It is that emotional sincerity, underneath all the baloney-based chaos, that elevates Baloney Tony beyond comic relief. He becomes a character grounded in loyalty, love, and genuine warmth.
Meaty Madness
Robinson’s improvisational talent gave Baloney Tony a flavor no script could contain. The directors gave him room to experiment, and he took full advantage. When asked about what it was like bringing the stuffed giraffe to life, Craig revelled in the collaboration.
” it’s such a collaboration of, of jokes and just, you know, improvising in the moment. And, you know, I I say someone said, oh, and Craig said it. Okay. Do it like this. And then it was it just it was ongoing. You know? It was so much fun. And, also, it is a love letter to to our brothers and sisters.”
This approach infused the character with wild energy and unpredictable rhythms that keep the audience guessing and laughing. But even in the madness, Robinson made sure Baloney Tony served the story.
“…when he’s gotta be the hero, I’m looking at my dad or my mother when he’s him and Joanne… he does have to be sweet to her. So, it’s huge between the collaboration and just, like, leaning on family.”
It is this careful blend of chaos and compassion that makes Baloney Tony unforgettable.
Meat Icon in the Making
From the moment the first footage premiered, fans were already buzzing about Baloney Tony. He is weird in the best way, like a cross between the Genie from Aladdin and a Looney Tunes fever dream. And Robinson’s voice is so distinct and playful that it is hard to imagine anyone else delivering those lines.
“It was, the voice behind who he is was like a mixture between the collaboration and family. And then, you know, just a stuffed animal who’s been stuck behind the refrigerator going crazy probably and having to talk himself out and be,
‘Look. I’m just a stuffed animal. Don’t even matter. You know?’”
RELATED: In Your Dreams Teaser Conjures Dreamy Sibling Adventure
Expect plush toys. Expect memes. Expect quotes that kids and adults will repeat until parents beg for mercy. Baloney Tony is built for fandom.
Craig Robinson, In Your Dreams‘ Secret Ingredient
What makes Baloney Tony truly shine is not just Craig Robinson’s comedy, but his heart. Every time he opens his mouth, you feel like you are hearing from someone who genuinely cares. Someone who is willing to be absurd if it helps someone he loves.
Robinson might be voicing a talking lunchmeat, but the emotional truth behind that voice is very real. He found the soul in the sandwich.
Before Baloney Tony takes over your screen, prepare yourself. In Your Dreams premieres November 14, exclusively on Netflix. The countdown to chaos, heart, and hilarious deli-fueled dreams has officially begun.
About In Your Dreams
Release date: Coming this Fall
Director: Alex Woo
Co-Director: Erik Benson
Producers: Timothy Hahn, p.g.a., Gregg Taylor, p.g.a.
Screenplay by: Erik Benson and Alex Woo
Story by: Alex Woo and Stanley Moore
Music by: John Debney
Animation Studio: Kuku Studios
Cast: Jolie Hoang-Rappaport, Elias Janssen, Craig Robinson, Simu Liu, Cristin Milioti, Omid Djalili, Gia Carides, SungWon Cho, Zachary Noah Piser
Synopsis
In Your Dreams is a comedy adventure that follows Stevie and her brother Elliot as they journey into the absurd landscape of their own dreams. If the siblings can withstand a snarky stuffed giraffe, zombie breakfast foods, and the queen of nightmares, the Sandman will grant them their ultimate dream come true…the perfect family.
Would you trust Baloney Tony to get you through your nightmares? Which animated sidekick is your all-time favorite? And how do you balance comedy with emotional truth? Let me know in the comments or @me!
KEEP READING: Karate Kid: Legends Review – 80s Spirit Reborn in Modern Classic
Leave a Reply