Director: Mike Flanagan
Writers: Mike Flanagan, Jeff Howard
Stars: Kate Bosworth, Thomas Jane, Jacob Tremblay
Jessie (Bosworth) and Mark (Jane) have decided to foster a child after the unfortunate death of their son Sean. They take in a young boy by the name of Cody (Tremblay) who is as seemingly normal as a child may seem. They quickly learn he’s far from average as it turns out when Cody dreams, all his visions take true form in the real world.
After one incident spring’s to life an image of their deceased son, Jessie momentarily obsesses with seeing her child again and again. Unfortunately, with any good comes the bad, and with sweet dreams come nightmares. Beautiful displays of butterflies are a telling sign that Cody is asleep, black moths fill the void once the nightmare has set.
Of course, there’s a backstory and it’s well worth the mystery of the unfolding. There are a few moments where you may wish they went for more during scenes but overall what was delivered came off well. The horror element in what is labeled as a fantasy/drama takes centre stage but never to a point where one would seem it is a horror tale. BEFORE I WAKE is exciting, sad, mysterious, and well worth the bowl of popcorn.
Take some time to enjoy this title.
Grade: A-
Movie Burner Entertainment 