

Five individuals recount their terrifying experiences of sleep paralysis in a 90-minute documentary that blends interviews with dramatic reenactments.
“Welcome to the scariest place on earth.”
Synopsis
Five individuals recount their terrifying experiences of sleep paralysis in a 90-minute documentary that blends interviews with dramatic reenactments.
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Chris recounts his terrifying experiences with sleep paralysis in Rodney Ascher's 2015 documentary, The Nightmare. The film features interviews with individuals who describe episodes of being unable to move or speak, often accompanied by vivid hallucinations. Ascher re-creates these chilling accounts using professional actors, blending personal narratives with dramatic reenactments. The Nightmare premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 26, 2015, and later screened at South by Southwest on March 13.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet people sharing real sleep paralysis stories
- See re-creations of terrifying experiences
- Find out why critics praised its unique approach
Did You Know
- The Nightmare premiered at Sundance on January 26, 2015.
- The film has a 67% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 58 reviews.
- Participants began approaching the film crew after the premise was announced.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the documentary The Nightmare?
Rodney Ascher directed the documentary The Nightmare.
When did The Nightmare premiere at the Sundance Film Festival?
The Nightmare premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 26, 2015.
What is the Rotten Tomatoes rating for The Nightmare?
The Nightmare holds a rating of 67% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 58 reviews.
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