Dying to Sleep

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.

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.

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.

"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.

This is a solid independent film.

Layered characters that had good acting, and a story that was interesting enough to make me want to keep watching.

The camerawork was actually pretty cool, I could tell they were doing handheld shots and angles when they wanted to show Mary (the main character), uneasy or going through things in her mind.

It went a little too far into the "drama" side that slowed down the thriller parts, but it made me care for the characters more, so I didn't mind it.

I like movies that get melodramatic but keep it grounded.

I would consider watching this again in the future.