DEAD AWAKE

Cinemavixion Review

Phillip Guzman's 'Dead Awake' delves into the terrifying realm of sleep paralysis, presenting a chilling narrative anchored by a compelling performance from Jocelin Donahue. As a social worker investigating a string of mysterious deaths, Donahue's character, Kate Bowman, finds herself ensnared by an ancient evil that preys on the vulnerable during their most defenseless moments. The film effectively taps into primal fears, drawing parallels between the supernatural entity and the psychological torment of sleep paralysis. While the narrative ventures into familiar horror tropes, its execution, supported by a solid cast including Jesse Bradford and Jesse Borrego, offers a suspenseful and unsettling experience. The film's critical reception, though mixed, highlights its ambition in exploring a unique and deeply personal form of terror, making it a noteworthy, albeit dark, addition to the genre.