Come True (2020) – Movie Review
Synopsis
"Come True," a psychological sci-fi horror film directed by Anthony Scott Burns, takes audiences on a chilling journey into the subconscious. The narrative revolves around a young woman named Sarah (played by Julia Sarah Stone), who is plagued by insomnia and frequent nightmares. Desperate for relief, she enrolls in a sleep study being conducted by an enigmatic research team led by Dr. W. M. (Landon Liboiron).
As Sarah participates in the experiments, she becomes increasingly entangled in a web of unsettling imagery and dark secrets that blur the line between reality and her dream world. Each nightly session unveils disturbing visions and figures, leading to a deeply immersive and surreal exploration of fear and the human psyche. As Sarah’s struggles intensify, she uncovers the terrifying truth behind the dreams and the sinister implications of the research.
"Come True" challenges viewers to confront their understandings of fear, reality, and the sleeping mind, making for a unique cinematic experience that leaves a lingering sense of dread long after the credits roll.
List of Actors and Characters
- Julia Sarah Stone as Sarah
- Landon Liboiron as Dr. W. M.
- Christopher Heatherington as Dr. Michal
- Tatum Kearney as the Dream Girl
- Denson Baker as The Soldier
- Drea de Matteo as Sarah’s Mother
Review
"Come True" is an audacious exploration of dreams, fears, and the human condition, deftly delving into the horrors that lurk within our subconscious. Anthony Scott Burns creates an atmosphere that is thick with tension, using an evocative visual aesthetic and a haunting score to draw audiences deep into Sarah’s psyche.
From a visual standpoint, the film is striking. The cinematography, helmed by Burns himself, employs an ethereal colour palette that oscillates between the cold tones of reality and the indistinct hues of the dream world. The meticulous framing of each shot serves to heighten the unease, with lingering close-ups of Sarah accentuating her emotional turmoil and existential dread. The artful juxtaposition of the sterile, clinical environment of the research facility against the wild, unpredictable nature of her dreams is particularly effective, amplifying the ongoing tension between safety and threat, logic and chaos.
The score, composed by Burns and featuring contributions from fellow collaborator Electric Youth, is chilling and immersive. The synth-pop undertones evoke an otherworldly ambience reminiscent of the soundscape from the 1980s whilst encapsulating the horror of the present. The music is not merely a backdrop but a character in itself, setting the mood for each scene and enhancing the film’s unnerving atmosphere.
Julia Sarah Stone’s portrayal of Sarah is commendable, demonstrating an impressive range of emotion from despair to fear and a desperate longing for peace. Stone brings depth to Sarah’s character, inviting the audience into her vulnerability as she grapples with personal trauma and alienation. As her nightmares intensify, we witness her descent into paranoia, effectively mirroring the film’s dark themes of mental health and the inherent fragility of the human mind.
The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, particularly Landon Liboiron as Dr. W. M., whose unsettling presence raises questions about the ethics of scientific research and the potential consequences of tampering with the unconscious mind. His character oscillates between a figure of authority and a potential antagonist, evoking a sense of distrust that fuels Sarah’s anxiety.
The screenplay is intricately woven, keeping viewers engaged while inviting them to unravel the threads of the narrative. The pacing is judiciously measured, allowing for moments of slow-building tension that culminate in startling revelations. Each dream sequence is layered with symbolism, working in tandem with the film’s broader commentary on fear and the nature of dreams. Sarah’s fears manifest as nightmarish creatures, each designed to evoke visceral reactions that resonate on both an emotional and psychological level.
Nevertheless, while "Come True" is visually stunning and thematically rich, it is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the pacing at times a little drawn out, with certain sequences feeling repetitive. The abstract nature of the narrative might leave some audiences yearning for clearer answers, as the film frequently prioritises atmosphere over a traditional plot structure. This ambiguity can provoke thought, but it may also alienate those who prefer a more straightforward narrative.
Additionally, while the film’s dream sequences are masterfully crafted, the ending may prove contentious. Those seeking closure or a definitive resolution may find themselves dissatisfied, as it invites interpretation rather than providing a clear outcome. This open-ended conclusion aligns with the film’s exploration of dreams—often fluid, unresolved, and deeply subjective—but might leave a segment of the audience longing for more.
The thematic underpinnings of "Come True" delve into the duality of self-discovery through fear, reflecting a societal struggle with mental health and the often-stigmatized challenges associated with sleep disorders. By examining the innate horrors that reside in our subconscious, it inspires a dialogue about the fragility of mental health, the unknowns of the mind, and the unseen battles that many face daily.
Ultimately, "Come True" is an intellectual and visceral experience that rewards viewers willing to engage with its complex themes. It presents an unsettling medley of horror and existential inquiry, underpinning the notion that sometimes, the true terror lies in the depths of our own minds.
Conclusion
In summary, "Come True" stands out as a unique addition to the sci-fi horror genre, excelling with its rich visual storytelling and an astute understanding of the human psyche. Though it possesses a few pacing issues and an ambiguous ending that may not resonate with everyone, its exploration of dreams and fears merits attention. It’s a notable exploration of the boundary between sleep and reality and the darkness that can arise from within.
For its artistic achievements, compelling performances, and thought-provoking thematic exploration, I would score "Come True" a solid 8 out of 10.
