Hayden Panettiere's latest horror film, 'Sleepwalker', is a disappointing addition to the genre. The movie centers around a grieving mother, Sarah, who struggles with multiple traumas, including the loss of her young daughter and the abusive behavior of her husband, who is now in a coma. While the film attempts to delve into the complexities of grief and nightmares, it falls short in delivering a compelling and genuinely frightening experience.
The story's familiarity is overwhelming, with a sense of 'been-there-done-that' that lingers long after the credits roll. The emotional range of the film is limited, and the attempts at comic relief fall flat. The dreary tone and lack of genuine dread make it a tedious watch. The only bright spot is a brief, out-of-place sequence involving a spiritual exorcist, which adds a touch of personality to an otherwise dull film.
The acting and cinematography give the movie a surreal quality, but it doesn't enhance the overall experience. The production values are modest, and the performances are awkward. The film's ending is particularly underwhelming, leaving viewers questioning whether the entire project was stretched beyond its limits.
'Sleepwalker' is available on VOD and in select theaters starting January 9th. Despite its flaws, the film might be better suited as an anthology segment rather than a feature-length movie.
