Dying to Sleep

I really enjoyed this film, that I found at the recommendation from a friend.

"Dying to Sleep" not only delves into the complexities of familial relationships (especially mother/daughter and brother/sister) but also intertwines elements of a psychological thriller, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the narrative.

Maria Pinsent's performance as the mother is a standout in this genre-bending film, as she navigates who she has always been with adjusting to new information in her life that requires flexibility.

The film's ability to seamlessly blend the psychological thriller elements with the harrowing reality of her daughter's mental health is what initially drew me to it, and Pinsent's portrayal only adds to its allure. Her compelling performance anchors the film, making it a captivating and emotionally resonant viewing experience for anyone intrigued by both psychological thrillers and poignant family dramas.

Got recommended this through a friend who watched it this year. I am passing along the recommendation to others.

I honestly thought it was a horror, just based on some of the articles I found on the project, but was pleasantly surprised to find it ride a sweet line of family themed thriller/drama.

The story is complex, the characters nuanced. For a film buff like me, I loved having to follow along and piece this story (dare I almost say - mystery?) together.

I think my largest takeaways were that, yes, we all have secrets and a past- and yes, we can all make amends with such things with hope of a brighter future. We are not slaves to our minds or weakest selves.

I think this film is a great production, well-directed, with authentic choices on the actors' parts (I especially enjoyed Victoria Baldesarra as Jen and SarahLydia Sophia as the lead, Mary, when seen together), and a nice choice for a night in.

"Dying to Sleep" is a poignant film that delves into the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship amidst a backdrop of mysterious nightmares and a reclusive doctor. The film beautifully captures the emotional journey of the characters as they navigate through the challenges posed by the protagonist's struggle with a rare sleep disorder.

At the heart of the narrative I was struck by the profound bond between the mother and daughter, portrayed with remarkable depth and authenticity. Through their shared experiences, the audience witnesses the unwavering love, support, and sacrifices that define their relationship.

You witness Helen (the mother) and Mary (the daughter) experience a myriad of emotions and a rollercoaster of a relationship recently damaged through misunderstanding and new information- changing the dynamic of the origins of their relationship.

The film skillfully intertwines moments of tenderness and vulnerability between the two characters, juxtaposed against the backdrop of Mary's mental health. These intimate scenes not only highlight the depth of their connection but also serve to underscore the central theme of familial love and devotion.

As the story unfolds, the mother-daughter dynamic becomes a driving force behind the narrative, propelling the characters forward in their quest for answers and ultimately, redemption. Their journey serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love and the unbreakable bonds that unite families, even in the face of adversity.

Overall, "Dying to Sleep" is a compelling exploration of the mother-daughter relationship, skillfully weaving together elements of drama, emotion, and suspense to deliver a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

I had the opportunity to see "Dying to Sleep" at the Chandler International Film Festival in early 2023, and am so excited it's available online now.

"Dying to Sleep" presented a captivating exploration of the human psyche at the film festival. The film's unique narrative approach and thought-provoking themes kept me at the edge of my seat.

The director's (Paris Dylan) ability to seamlessly blend suspense with introspective moments showcased a strong storytelling technique.

As far as the performances- they were outstanding, especially from Dar Dixon, who delivered a nuanced portrayal of the complex emotions entwined in the storyline (character of Frank Cyrus).

I also really enjoyed the score, and felt it brought the film together!

I've rated this an 8 out out 10 and am excited to see more from this team and Wild7 Films.

This is a greatly paced story with a fantastic ensemble, and a strong, grounded performance from SarahLydia Sophia. The film manages to maintain an eerie atmosphere, all while Mary and her family continue to be the heart at the center and drive the story forward. Director Paris Dylan's very strong sense of visual language and Muneed Rehmans's sharp cinematography gives the audience a sense of closeness, particularly to Mary's near constant state of terror. The story effectively balances Mary's ongoing troubled relationship with her family and the nightmarish journey she continues to experience, contributing overall to her journey coming back to herself.