Dying to Sleep

I recently watched "Dying to Sleep" with my teenage daughter, and it was an experience that brought us closer together.

As a parent, I'm usually cautious about the content she consumes, but this movie struck the perfect balance between being engaging for her and satisfying my love for a good thriller. The storyline kept us on the edge of our seats, and the twists and turns had us guessing until the very end.

While I recognize that this movie might not be for everyone, it felt tailor-made for us. It's not often that we find a film that resonates with both of us, but "Dying to Sleep" managed to do just that.

There was one jump scare that was a little too much for my daughter, and I know would be too much for a few of my friends, though.

Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a gripping thriller that transcends generational gaps.

"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 enjoyed this film overall but especially Victoria Baldesarra's portrayal of "Jen", the lead character Mary's best friend.

Her nuanced supporting performance brought depth and authenticity to the character, elevating the overall quality of the film. Baldesarra's ability to convey the complexities of Jen's emotions showcased her talent and commitment to the role.

Her performance was not only compelling but also added a layer of richness to the narrative, making Jen a memorable and impactful part of the story. Throughout the development of the storyline as we see Mary's character unraveled, Jen remains steadfast as an ally prepared to support and assist her best friend in the good and the bad, although we can see even she is beginning to question Mary's sanity. I liked the scene at the bridge where she is strong yet supportive.

Baldesarra's work in "Dying to Sleep" is undoubtedly worthy of recognition and stands as a testament to her skill as an actress, deserving of awards and acclaim.

I will definitely be on the lookout for this rising actress!

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.

If you like Lifetime/TVMovies with more bite and depth, this film is for you.

My mom loved this movie (it has a mother/daughter theme) and she watches that lifetime stuff. I'd say it's better than most of those types of flicks though, cuz the acting in Dying to Sleep is actually good and isn't all cheesy, and the story is more gritty/interesting suspense that you can build clues with, but I'd say it's still in the same vein.

It has that mystery element/woman in peril/female gaze/relationship angle that a lot of those Lifetime movies have. But the Writing is way more engaging cuz it's funny at times, scary some times, and heartfelt also, but doesn't take you out of the movie, like those other writing can do. I'd say the Writing is the best part of this one.