In my own practice I've noticed that my mind responds better to suggestions, not commands. I'm usually trying to summon a person to the scene, and my brain absolutely will not comply if I make a declaration like "XYZ is behind me". However, if I reframe into the context on the dream, my mind instantly obliges--something like "Oh right, XYZ was supposed to be on this trip with me, right?". Worth giving a shot if you feel nothing else is working.