Bad Dreams (film)

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Bad Dreams is a 1988 American supernatural horror film directed by Andrew Fleming and starring Jennifer Rubin, Bruce Abbott, Richard Lynch, and E.G. Daily. The film follows a woman who wakes up from a coma after thirteen years and recalls the cult suicide she was a part of, leading to terrifying visions and occurrences.

Plot

The story centers around Cynthia, the sole survivor of a cult known as Unity Fields, who wakes from a coma after thirteen years. The cult, led by the charismatic Harris, committed mass suicide by fire, believing they would emerge into a new existence. However, Cynthia survives and is haunted by visions of Harris, who seems to be encouraging her to join her deceased cult members. As she undergoes therapy in a psychiatric hospital, her fellow patients begin dying under mysterious circumstances, leading her to believe that Harris's spirit is responsible.

Cast

• Jennifer Rubin as Cynthia
• Bruce Abbott as Dr. Alex Karmen
• Richard Lynch as Harris
• E.G. Daily as Lana
• Dean Cameron as Ralph
• Harris Yulin as Dr. Berrisford

Production

Bad Dreams was filmed in Los Angeles, California. The film blends elements of psychological horror with supernatural occurrences, creating a tense atmosphere that questions the boundaries between reality and the supernatural.

Reception

Upon its release, Bad Dreams received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its atmospheric tension and Rubin's performance, while others criticized it for its similarity to other horror films of the era, particularly A Nightmare on Elm Street. Despite the mixed critical reception, the film has gained a cult following over the years.

Themes

The film explores themes of cult mentality, the impact of trauma, and the struggle between good and evil. It delves into the psychological effects of surviving a cult and the process of healing from such profound trauma, while also questioning the nature of reality and the power of the supernatural.

See Also

• List of cult films
• Supernatural horror films
• 1980s horror films