Doctor Sleep 2019 Movie Full Review

Doctor Sleep

"Doctor Sleep" is a 2019 horror movie directed by Mike Flanagan and starring Ewan McGregor as Dan Torrance, a grown-up version of the boy from Stephen King's classic novel "The Shining". The movie is based on King's 2013 novel of the same name, which serves as a sequel to "The Shining".

The story picks up several decades after the events of "The Shining", with Dan struggling to come to terms with his traumatic past and battling alcoholism. He eventually finds work at a hospice where he uses his psychic abilities to comfort dying patients, earning him the nickname "Doctor Sleep".

The movie takes a slow-burning approach to its horror, with tension building gradually over the course of its nearly two-and-a-half-hour runtime. Flanagan does an excellent job of building suspense, using clever camera work and sound design to create an eerie atmosphere. The movie is also visually stunning, with some truly impressive set design and special effects.

One of the strongest aspects of "Doctor Sleep" is its cast. Ewan McGregor delivers a powerful performance as Dan, expertly conveying his character's inner turmoil and haunted past. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Rebecca Ferguson as the villainous Rose the Hat, and Kyliegh Curran as Abra Stone, a young girl with psychic abilities who becomes a key player in the story.

The movie's themes of addiction, trauma, and redemption are handled with sensitivity and nuance, and provide a compelling through-line for the story. While the horror elements may be what draw audiences in, it's the emotional journey of the characters that really make the movie resonate.

However, "Doctor Sleep" is not without its flaws. The movie can be slow at times, and some viewers may find its length to be a bit excessive. Additionally, the third act takes some significant departures from the source material that may not sit well with fans of King's novel.

Overall, "Doctor Sleep" is a strong horror movie that serves as a worthy sequel to "The Shining". Its excellent cast, slow-burning tension, and emotionally resonant themes make it a standout entry in the horror genre. However, its length and departures from the source material may not be to everyone's taste. If you're a fan of horror movies or Stephen King's work, "Doctor Sleep" is definitely worth checking out.