The Nightmare (2015 American film)

The Nightmare is a 2015 American documentary film directed by Rodney Ascher. The film explores the phenomenon of sleep paralysis through interviews with eight individuals who suffer from it. These interviews are interspersed with dramatic reenactments of the subjects' experiences, creating a visually intense and often frightening depiction of sleep paralysis.

Ascher's approach blends documentary and horror elements, aiming to recreate the subjective experience of sleep paralysis for the viewer. The film does not focus on scientific explanations of the condition, but instead on the terrifying and often similar experiences reported by sufferers, including feelings of being unable to move, breathe, or speak, coupled with the presence of shadowy figures or oppressive forces.

The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its immersive and unsettling atmosphere, while others criticized its lack of scientific rigor and reliance on anecdotal evidence. Regardless, it has become a notable exploration of sleep paralysis and its psychological impact on those who experience it.