colin spoelman

REM is the story of two psychology students working in a sleep laboratory researching a drug that alters consciousness during the sleep cycle. Together, they discover a way to induce waking consciousness during dreams. Fascinated by the lure of exploring their own subconscious, the two start to experiment on themselves, with grave consequences: the line between reality and fantasy disintegrates, and the characters can no longer separate memories from dreams. The script explores different theories of why dreams exist, what they mean, and how scientists can use (or misuse) drugs in pursuit of the greater good.

REM is a complex psychological thriller, and though it deals explicitly with ideas about the scientific process, professional ethics, and the limits of psychotherapy, the film also has a lyricism that will appeal to a broad audience. Shifting in and out of reality, the audience is left guessing what is real and what is fantasy. It’s a high-concept movie that feels studious and smart without the gloss that can sometimes detract from conceit-driven films.

Written as a crossover indie, REM has the potential to find a wide audience with edgy, younger viewers. The script is available by email.