Wide Awake

About This Movie

Wide Awake is a curious blend of documentary and horror, not in the traditional sense, but more in how it captures the haunting nature of sleeplessness. Alan Berliner pulls no punches while exploring his insomnia—it's raw and personal. The pacing feels almost like a restless mind racing, which adds to the discomfort. You get this sense of intimacy, almost voyeuristic, as he lays bare the mundane rituals and bizarre thoughts that plague him in the night. It's not just about sleeplessness; it's about a constant battle against one's own psyche. The visuals are rich, often creating this unsettling atmosphere that lingers. It's a unique take on a very real struggle, making it distinct in the documentary landscape.

Released by First Run Features, DVD in 2006 · Various festival screenings, including Sundance · Uses archival footage and personal recordings · Cinematography by Berliner himself, creating an intimate feel