This definitely betrays its nature as a TV movie, for the production values are distinctly lesser than contemporary cinematic fare; we see this above all in the most fantastical visuals, be they practical effects and special makeup or sparingly employed post-production additions. Just as much to the point, the changing appearance of Mukoda may have been perfect in the story's original manga format, but it doesn't necessarily translate so well to the live-action audiovisual medium. Be that as it may, thankfully this isn't an instance where subjectively weaker production values have all that significant an impact on the whole. Even with such visuals on hand, 'Long dream' rather distinctly operates in the realm of psychological horror, and in that it is fascinating and unsettling exactly as it is with no especial need for the benefits of a bigger budget.
The root idea only scrapes the surface of the gnawing implications of the concept that's dealt with in these brisk sixty minutes. Ordinary dreams and nightmares can have profound effects on on a person; what might it do to someone if the dreams of one night's sleep lasted for weeks, months, or years? Extrapolating more fancifully, what if such extended dreams could have physiological effects in the real world? Between Mukoda's condition and Dr. Kuroda's obsession we have all the substance that is necessary for an absorbing, disquieting tale of horror, and the resulting film readily digs in its claws in no time at all. I confess I'm not familiar with Ito Junji's manga, but having now watched Higuchi Akihiro's adaptation I'd be quite keen on perusing it for myself. Even for so small a length the narrative is fiercely compelling and haunting, rich with strong scenes, characterizations, and incredible, dark imagination. And whatever the limitations of this live-action adaptation, Higuchi and co-writer Nanatsuki Kyoichi brilliantly drew upon the sinister vibes of Ito's work to make this flick as vibrant and impactful as they could. And I think they handily succeeded.
All involved turned in excellent contributions to bring the piece to bear, and from editing and cinematography, to hair and makeup, to lighting, and more, all participants have a moment to shine. The budget was seemingly low but the production design is terrific, rather recalling graphic adventure or horror-mystery videogames where a hospital served as the setting. All these facets, and the splendid special makeup and effects, help to foster a pervasive uneasy atmosphere that hangs over the entire runtime - to say nothing of Zuntata's exquisite original music. The use is relatively sparing, and the chords and instrumentation simple, yet when judiciously employed even a few notes on a piano can resonate like a thunderclap, and the soft dispensation here is wonderfully potent in complementing and rounding out the picture. Even the punctuation of some violence can't tear asunder the overarching dread ambience, nor what I understand to be an alteration from the original ending in Ito's manga.
I sat to watch with fairly high expectations given Ito's reputation, and I've not been disappointed. The production has shortcomings, but the core substance is impeccable, and all elements to realize it are terrific. This isn't the type of horror story for those seeking visceral thrills or instant gratification, yet I often find the subtler flavors to be even more lastingly satisfying, and so it is in this case, too. Warts and all, 'Long dream' is a great and underappreciated modern classic even as a TV feature, and this is well worth seeking out.
