FilmQuest 24: "Somnium" - movie review

“Gemma’s pursuit of stardom turns dark in Racheal Cain’s haunting thriller Somnium.”

One of the films I missed at earlier festivals this year was Racheal Cain’s Somnium. After covering the film’s initial announcements on HMU, I eagerly anticipated this supernatural thriller—and it did not disappoint. Somnium is a standout debut for Cain, blending stunning visuals with a powerful lesson on confronting fears. The film’s most fascinating aspect is its ability to immerse viewers in a dreamlike state, making us question what’s real in this eloquently written narrative.

Somnium tells a timeless yet relevant story of Gemma (Chloë Levine), a small-town young woman with a one-way ticket to Los Angeles, dreaming of stardom. But reality hits hard: bills need paying, work is scarce, and L.A. is notoriously unforgiving. When she lands a job at the sleep clinic Somnium, the real horror of the story begins to unfold. Recent films have highlighted the isolating, anti-social pressures of fame, and Cain’s work offers a unique perspective—reminding us that dreams don’t always work out. Themes of imposter syndrome, loyalty, and believing in others’ dreams are woven into the story, creating a subtle warning of how not to survive in the city of angels.

Levine is fantastic, bringing an almost Mia Goth-like quality while fully owning her role in a way that feels perfectly suited for her. Somnium has its scares, but they aren’t the focal point; the real horror lies in Gemma’s self-discovery and the eerie atmosphere of the sleep clinic meant to “help” people. Fans of films exploring the unknown depths of REM sleep will appreciate Somnium for what it offers. The film is visually captivating from start to finish, and while the scares aren’t inherently terrifying, the haunting premise of pursuing your dreams—and who you might encounter along the way—leaves a lasting impact.

Rating: 3.5/5

Somnium

Written & Directed by: Racheal Cain

Starring: Chloë Levine, Will Peltz, Peter Vack, Johnathon Schaech , Clarissa Thibeaux,

and Grace Van Dien