Day 83- Movie 80. Dreamscape (1984)

I have to believe Dreamscape influenced a number of films that came after it, including last year's Inception. While it occasionally feels cheesy by today's standards, this film was probably much better when it was first released in 1984. I tried to look past the weak special effects and see this movie in the light in which it was first released. I actually really enjoyed this movie.

The story revolves around a team of scientists attempting to use psychics to penetrate the dreams of patients suffering from crippling nightmares. The scientists recruit a very talented psychic (Dennis Quaid) to help people by assisting them in conquering their fears so they can sleep peacefully at night. The idea of entering other people's dreams is a fascinating one, and I loved that this movie tackled that concept in the early 80s.

I automatically get excited about films that do cool things like allow people to enter others' dreams. There is something so interesting about that concept, and I love seeing it played out on screen. Dreamscape does a good job of portraying the dream world- the dream scenes certainly feel like believable dreams, some of which we've probably had before. I thought the idea was interesting, and it kept me engaged in the story from start to finish.

The movie also features a very good cast. I've always liked Dennis Quaid, and I believe he works well here. I believed him as a psychic and I enjoyed watching him on screen. He brings a good deal of charisma and screen presence to his character. The movie also features Max Von Sydow and Christopher Plummer, two excellent actors. I also liked Kate Capshaw here. The cast is impressive.

While I suppose some could view this film in a negative light, I really enjoyed watching it. I admit the story could have been a bit more effective- by the time the government enters the story, things get a bit far-fetched, and I wouldn't be surprised if that lost some people. I was able to stick with the story (even the more outlandish parts) because I cared about the characters and I was genuinely interested in seeing how everything turned out.

If you are able to put aside the criticisms you might have about the film's special effects, pseudoscience and other flaws (keep in mind that this movie is from '84, not today) you'll find a very intelligent, thought-provoking and entertaining adventure movie. If I was judging this movie by today's standards, it would probably be lower. However, keeping in mind the time in which it was made, I found Dreamscape to be a thoroughly enjoyable movie. I would give this film a 7.5/10.

Do you think Christopher Nolan has seen Dreamscape? Do you think Inception was at least partially influenced by this movie?