MovieChat Forums > Sleep Dealer (2008) Discussion > Simple words of praise

Simple words of praise

posted 16 years ago by merripen
9 replies | jump to latest

I saw Sleep Dealer tonight at the San Francisco International Film Festival, and was additionally fortunate enough to have the opportunity to listen to its director speak on his film.

First, the film was wonderful. It's a unique and insightful vision of the future, combined with a very enjoyable narrative. The experience was delightful, and I encourage anyone who gets the chance to check out Rivera's big-screen debut, hopefully hitting screens later this year.

Second, Alex Rivera himself is a remarkable man. I had about an hour to listen to him discuss his influences and insights, following the film itself. I was struck by how intelligent, globally aware, and refreshingly ingenuous he is. I speak as candidly when I say that I truly admire the man and immensely enjoyed listening to his take on not just film, but the myriad facets that compose our world, as well as his views on such things.

Alex, I have a hunch that you do in fact read the imdb boards. I want to extend my personal thanks to you for your film, your festival attendance, and your vision. I'm sure I am not alone when I say I cannot wait to see what you give us next.

-m

[–] Vicky_and_Dre 16 years ago

I saw a screening in the UK, and totally agree - he is very intelligent and articulate. I completely understood his vision and what the film meant after I heard him talk about it. I think its a great idea to show the future in a third world setting - dont remember seeing that done before.

http://vickyanddre.wordpress.com
come, talk =)

[–] randy-440 15 years ago

I saw a screening of this film a few evenings ago but didn't have the advantage of the director or any of the actors present. While it offers a dark view of the future of water rights and fate of workers in LDCs, this is an engaging and fascinating show. It is set to open in major U.S. cities in April 2009 with the distributor targeting cities with large Latino populations. I think that target is too narrow given the quality of the script and acting.

[–] DrLao-2 15 years ago

I saw it in Los Angeles, and also thought highly of it. It's the best movie I've seen so far this year. A science fiction film with content! I hope this starts a trend.

A reviewer for Variety says it's not worth seeing on the big screen, but I disagree. I think the cinematography is beautiful, particularly in the rural areas where the film opens. The love story seemed real to me, and that may lose at least some impact when shrunken down for TV.

Alex Rivera spoke at the screening I attended, too. He's full of insights. I wish I could have asked him questions for hours.

[–] DCI77 11 years ago

What do you mean by "globally aware"?

2013 Most Anticipated - Stoker, The Spectacular Now

[–] victorherm54 11 years ago

Globally aware - Possessing a good understanding of how the world works, both now and throughout history?

A globally aware person will get much more out of this film than one who is not.

[–] DCI77 11 years ago

>>A globally aware person will get much more out of this film than one who is not.

I guess that would depend on if they buy what's told in the movie.

2013 Most Anticipated - Stoker, The Spectacular Now

[–] victorherm54 11 years ago

This movie makes valid points about immigration, technology in our lives, the global economy, corporatization (such as with water rights in the movie), the military industrial complex & propaganda that sustains it.

[–] DCI77 11 years ago

And what are these valid points? Expand with much detail, please.

2013 Most Anticipated - Stoker, The Spectacular Now

[–] TanteWaileka 11 years ago

I just saw this movie on netflix, and although I despise the invasion of my country, the usa, by illegal aliens (not 'undocumented workers'), I thoroughly enjoyed this movie.
As a senior leader in I.T., I do not think illegals can do the jobs of Americans, and I know there is NO job that an illegal can do that an AMERICAN is also NOT willing to do. That's the 'myth' that corporations spew out so they can get cheap labor. It is true for technology too... but more so, because American technology workers are the best in the world, unless you believe Bill 'lamebrain' Gates and his ilk.
Nevertheless the ideas expressed in this movie are not just 'fearmongering' or 'SciFi tales', but certainty for the future. Everywhere people have to pay for water, and even in idiot-overrun states like California, water can be withheld for the weakest of reasons. ... eg. to save the life of a 2-inch fish and destroy the lives and livelihood of small farmers (google it).
I liked the movie, I think there is nothing at all 'sci fi' about it. Everything that is currently imaginery in the movie will one day be reality.
Too bad.

Life is a journey not a destination. Fear nothing.