Trouble Sleeping sounds like one of those prime time soap operas that dominated the television air waves in the early 1990s. Vanessa (Vanessa Angel) is tormented by her visions of her late husband Charles (Billy Zane). Charles committed suicide four years prior. The body was discovered by her stepson Justin (Kale Clauson) who now stands to inherit his father’s millions. On top of everything, a graduate student named August (Ingrid Eskeland) is doing her thesis paper on Charles.
It is a lot to take in, but much like similar over the top stories, it is much simpler than it initially sounds. Ultimately, that ends up being the biggest issue with Trouble Sleeping; its wild premise never ends up living up to its potential. The thriller ends up being a little to predictable. At times, it is as if a checklist was referred to while making the movie. This does not mean it is not a enjoyable watch, however.
The cast do their best with the script they are given. For example, Angel gets increasingly paranoid as the plot thickens. And while it is not difficult to figure out where Trouble Sleeping is headed, it is a lot of fun getting there. Director Robert Adetuyi give the film a stylish neo-noir look. Lighting is used to maximum effect and shadows do a great job of heightening the tension. The running themes of greed and power are effectively conveyed in Trouble Sleeping.
By the time the final credits roll, the movie will leave audiences with a sense of satisfaction. While nothing is ever extraordinary, it does a lot of things well. Most importantly, it serves a purpose. It is fine background fluff that is easily digested. Its premise sounds a little silly – mostly because it is – but that is part of the charm of Trouble Sleeping.
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