Karen Doesn't Dream (2018) Poster

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I went in not expecting much
gotohoward28 September 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I thought this was pretty well done for a low budget, almost student level, film. I feel films like this should be made since it opens up new discourse for creativity and conversation. Mainstream films in many cases are purely food for the masses to get huge box offices. Another superhero film starts to drive me crazy since I like seeing things that test my sensibility. This particular film had fairly decent acting, and a good hook. Troubled and depressed person who can't sleep who discovers watching videos of people sleeping restful. It is certainly a character study, and it isn't for everyone since it's somewhat weird story line and low mood. I found myself connecting with the main character's plight at some points. The world can be an tough place especially when someone's not too happy with their past circumstances, and current life. Worthwhile for someone who is lonely especially to see they aren't alone as shown by the character feeling isolated by their own choice mostly.
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1/10
You are better off sleeping for an hour and a half
julian-640-54405827 September 2019
The description intrigued me so I decided to watch it. My mistake to be sure.

A few words come to mind: Meaningless, pointless, plot less... I could go on but I don't want to be accused of boring the reader in the same way this 'thing' bores the viewer.

One thing this film (poetic license here) did do was it made me research its origin as I tried to find perhaps some explanation for why this was ever done. I found that it "was produced through the Annual Film Program at Portland State University TV". This explains a lot.

It also saddens me to think that this is what is consider worthy of being called a film...and sadder still that this is what is being bred as the future crop of filmmakers.

Please save your sanity and avoid this journey in to nowhere.
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9/10
A Slow Burn, that's totally worth it.
JohnAbrahms01127 September 2019
I was flipping across Amazon and came across this title. I'm super into dark artsy content that makes you feel a certain sort of way. I've had a rough week, but as a grown dude, I was on the verge of tears after watching this. This may have to do with some personal stuff going on in my life that relates to the film's content but I was moved to say the least.

A watch worth your time that captivates the viewer with its powerful psychological ambiance.
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9/10
The more empathy you have, the more this movie will mess you up
zinaletitia28 September 2019
This film depicts abnormal psychology in a deeper way that most mainstream psychology-based thrillers/dramas totally miss. The horror isn't shoved down your throat, instead it relies on your own empathy to put yourself in the main character's mindset and once you're there, it's very unsettling. It's easy to feel like your mind is spiraling out of control. The overall look and feel along with music accentuate this feeling and turn the film into a totally immersive experience. The slowness at the beginning and little bits of comic relief ease you into a sense of relatable familiarity before taking your mind to very unsettling places. This movie isn't supposed to make you feel comfortable or amused, it's more like a mental trip, pushing the limits for what the average person is willing to relate to and empathize with. There are some awkward moments here and there, but if you stick with it, they add to the experience overall.
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8/10
A slow burn at times but worth the watch if you're into psychological character studies.
Craig-Mayers27 September 2019
I can't quite put it into words but this film resonated with me in a way I didn't expect it to. It's far from a perfect film, but the emotional peaks hit just right for me. While the sleep tape stuff was interesting, I think the real substance in this film is Karen's relationships and how she navigates them.

There were moments that left a lot to be desired, but there were also a lot of moments that had me completely mesmerized. Even with some of the lackluster stuff, the good far outdid those few bad spots. It's not a film for everyone, but if you're into character studies and you don't mind a few slow moments, then definitely check it out. I found myself emotionally invested in Karen by the end of it. The reaction and emotion it got out of me made it worth the watch.
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8/10
Fanatic and Eerie
adarling-4286827 September 2021
This is a good film. The other review on this film borderline calls people stupid for not enjoying the movie's slowness. It IS slow in parts, but that doesn't make the film not worth it. It also doesn't make you a simpleton for thinking so. And if you watch and rate it under a 7, I'm sorry to say that this film's other reviewer doesn't seem to understand personal opinion nor do they seem to care about anyone's opinion of the movie that doesn't 100% line up with their own.

That being said, the movie is wonderfully done, I'll give it that. It can be a little slow-paced but there's a point to that. It adds to the viewer's inability to figure out what's going to come next, and it does a good job of it. There are parts of the film that feel mundane, but I believe that's on purpose. Everything about this town screams mundane except Karen and her demons.

I definitely recommend it if you like a bit of uneasiness in your horror flicks. Do not watch if you are expecting to have everything explained to you or if you are wanting a fast-paced action horror film. This is a slow and methodical watch but it pulls you in almost immediately. Give it a watch!
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10/10
A subliminal mind blower!
KMitchell1211127 September 2019
Not your typical horror film. Nuanced and complicated yet with a simplistic plot.

Very good film!! Made by Portland state students that most definitely seem to know what they are doing. Kudos to director and crew and of course the Amazing cast.

Jessica Skinner is an absolute treat... Angella was amazing... Connor Fogarty is great...Bryan Maurice was hilarious!!! Just bravo to everyone involved.

If you hate this movie or find it boring and slow you lack the capacity/capability to understand complex stuble horror.

Definitely a different take on the genre. Most definitely deserves 10/10 Stars. Any rating lower than a 7 means you just didnt watch or understand.
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