The Science of Sleep (2006)

O An excellent must-see
O Good video rental
X Mediocre
O Rent something else

Review by Jason Pyles / May 3, 2007

Many people, if not most, would probably hate “The Science of Sleep,” dismissing it as weird, abstract and bizarre. This artsy movie is indeed whimsical and wacky, but that’s because it has more to do with dreams than science.

As near as I can tell, “The Science of Sleep” is about a delusional young artist named Stephane (Gael Garcia Bernal) who has trouble separating his dream states from reality. He falls in love with his next-door neighbor, Stephanie (Charlotte Gainsbourg). His friendship and aspiring romance with her is endearing, heartwarming and creepy — all at the same time.

We see daily dreamscapes and the real-world wrestles of Stephane, including the job he despises and his love for Stephanie. And like all love stories, we think the two should be together, but they can’t communicate well enough to make that happen.

I liked this film, but it’s definitely an acquired taste. It features three languages: English, French, and some Spanish, and is subtitled accordingly.

“The Science of Sleep” leaves you with the same kind of aftertaste as “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004). It’s a movie that’s like eggnog: sweet, unusual and a little bit goes a long way.

Directed by Michel Gondry
Gael Garcia Bernal / Charlotte Gainsbourg / Alain Chabat
105 min. Fantasy / Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 9 and up

DVD release date: February 6, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0097 : 198