From documentarian Rodney Ascher (Room 237), The Nightmare uses cinematic recreations to explore the terrifying phenomena of sleep paralysis, a condition in which people regain consciousness after being asleep but are unable to move or cry out. Typically these states are accompanied by horrifying noises and visions of something menacing in the room. It’s a shitty experience to have (I had them about twice a year up until five or so years ago) and Ascher’s approach to examining the topic sounds truly scary and inventive.

Before its screening later today at SXSW, Gravitas Ventures has announced they will be releasing The Nightmare in North America in select theaters and VOD on June 5. Having experienced sleep paralysis and the shadow man at the foot of the bed (the worst), I’m really excited to see this doc. From the press release: