Dreams on Film: The Cinematic Struggle Between Art and Science [Paperback]

Leslie Halpern (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 28, 2003 | ISBN-10: 0786415967 | ISBN-13: 978-0786415960

Films with dream sequences, or a dreamlike quality, allow directors to create their own rules of logic and nature to meet a variety of artistic needs. For instance, an opening dream immediately establishes what a character is feeling; a later dream—or series of them—provides viewers with a glimpse of the climax, and a concluding dream ties up loose ends. (In real life, of course, dreams do not occur at such convenient times or serve such useful purposes.)

This book explores why science is lost or distorted in the process of representing dreams on film and why audiences prefer this figurative truth of art over the literal truth of science. Part One discusses changes in form and considers the history of dream theory. Additionally, the physiology of sleeping and dreaming, dream structure, sleep deprivation, dreams under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and waking up, as depicted on film, are examined.

Part Two investigates changes in content, and delves into the psychology of sleeping and dreaming, dream interpretation, altered states of consciousness, visions and prophecies, dreams as wish fulfillment, sex and death, nightmares, and reality versus illusion. The author uses theories by Freud, Jung, and current experts in her analyses of dream sequences and their use in film.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Writer Leslie Halpern is a columnist for Markee Magazine and a film correspondent for The Orlando Sentinel. She lives in Oviedo, Florida

Product Details

• Paperback: 209 pages
• Publisher: Mcfarland & Co Inc Pub (January 28, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0786415967
• ISBN-13: 978-0786415960
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,622,937 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Leslie C. Halpern is an award-winning poet, essayist, book and film reviewer, and nonfiction book author. Her books include Reel Romance. The Lovers' Guide to the 100 Best Date Movies and Dreams on Film.

More than 2,000 of her articles have appeared in publications including The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Markee Magazine, and the Orlando Sentinel. Her poetry has been published in True Romance Magazine, Confluence, SciFaiKuest Magazine, and in the anthologies A Poet's Haggadah and Poetry to Feed the Spirit.

Leslie earned a Master's Degree in Liberal Arts from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, and a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from the University of Kentucky. Visit her website: http://home.roadrunner.com/~lesliehalpern

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Thought provoking, entertaining and easy to read, September 1, 2003

By 

S. S. Davis (North Potomac, Maryland USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dreams on Film: The Cinematic Struggle Between Art and Science (Paperback)

I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked up this book, but was impressed from the beginning! It is not only easy to read, but had me thinking about so many films that I had seen that are discussed in the book. I'm now interested in seeing other movies that the book analyses. There are a variety of wonderful movie photos throughout the book to enhance the text. Areas covered include nightmares, dream symbols, interpretation, and more. You can see that the author has put a lot of thought and research into this book. I highly recommend it!

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A New Perspective On Dreams Of The Silver Screen, July 25, 2003

By 

the dude "Firebrand Films" (Nashville, TN USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dreams on Film: The Cinematic Struggle Between Art and Science (Paperback)

DREAMS ON FILM is an effective and entertaining exploration of how dreams and art coexist. From Freud to Freddy Kreuger, Ms. Halpern examines the scientific reality of dreams while analyzing hundreds of movies from mainstream Hollywood to low-budget indie fare. The result is a unique combination of art and science that appeals to a wide demographic. Whether you are a film buff or a psychologist, this book is definitely a must read that not only gave me a better appreciation for the art of film, but also a deeper understanding about how our minds work.
This would be a great book for film studies as well as psychology classes. After reading DREAMS ON FILM, my video rental wish list expanded tremendously. If you're looking for a book that is both entertaining as well as edifying, check it out.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Be sure to read it!, October 16, 2003

By 

Sarah (Atlanta, GA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dreams on Film: The Cinematic Struggle Between Art and Science (Paperback)

Anyone who wants to know anything about sleeping and dreaming in the movies MUST read this book. It is insightful and extremely well written. It was a fun read that was also educational. I can't wait to read Halpern's other book "Reel Romance."