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The Science of Sleep
La Science des rêves
2006 106 min France, Italy R 18+
★7.1
Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
Director: Michel Gondry
Trailers
Description
A man entranced by his dreams and imagination is lovestruck with a French woman and feels he can show her his world.
Budget:
$6M
US Gross:
$4.67M
Worldwide:
$9.52M
Starring
Gael García Bernal
Actor
Charlotte Gainsbourg
Actor
Miou-Miou
Actor
Awards
Georges Awards 2007
— Best Low-Budget/Arthouse Film
Key opinion
The Science of Sleep is a highly divisive, surreal exploration of the blurred lines between dream states and waking reality. While many viewers find the film’s handmade aesthetic and whimsical, child-like tone to be a charming and immersive experience, others criticize the lack of narrative structure and find the protagonist’s immature behavior frustrating.
| Acting | Gael García Bernal delivers a physically expressive performance that captures the protagonist’s vulnerability and internal conflict. | |
| Production | The use of tactile, low-budget materials like cardboard and cellophane creates a distinct, intimate, and enchanting visual identity. | |
| Screenplay | The film’s abstract and non-linear narrative creates a dreamlike atmosphere that rewards viewers who embrace the surreal, while alienating those seeking traditional plot progression. | |
| Theme | Stéphane’s fragile, immature personality polarizes the audience, shifting between sympathetic human complexity and an irritating character flaw. | |
| Pacing | The chaotic structure and lack of clear narrative urgency leave some viewers feeling disengaged or exhausted, while others find the hypnotic rhythm comforting. |