First things first: Chad Ferrin’s Unspeakable: Beyond the Wall of Sleep isn’t your great-aunt’s typical Lovecraft movie on PBS. This film takes H.P. Lovecraft’s deep sense of dread, cranks it up to eleven, and rockets it straight into the cosmos. The outcome? A wild, bizarre tribute to cosmic horror that feels like being caught in a bad dream where David Lynch and John Waters compete for control of your mind.
The Good (Madness, Macabre, and Miano):
Edward Furlong, known from Terminator 2, holds the chaos together as Ambrose London, a brooding dream researcher who is both skeptical and searching for truth. Furlong delivers a great performance, maintaining his composure even as everything crumbles around him—imagine Gregory Peck in The Omen if he had to dodge weird tentacles and witness bizarre hallucinations. But the standout performance comes from Robert Miano, who plays both the frail asylum inmate James Fhelleps and his wild counterpart, Joe Slater. Miano shifts between these roles seamlessly, offering a performance that’s both touching and frightening.
The supporting cast adds to the craziness: Bai Ling is a scene-stealer as Dr. Fenton, while Ginger Lynn adds a surprising warmth as Ambrose’s wife, making you wonder why she’s not featured in more indie horror films. Plus, Steve Railsback (Lifeforce!) pops in briefly, reminding you that no one portrays “unhinged” quite like him.
Ferrin’s direction is a nod to practical effects. Joe Castro’s creature designs are wonderfully tangible and surreal. One standout moment? A scene in prison featuring let’s say creative monsters that will stick with you long after the film ends. The film’s gritty, retro feel (think VHS tapes, old-fashioned flashbacks, and a synth-heavy soundtrack) gives off the vibe of wandering into a haunted rental store—in a good way.
The Bad (and the Oh God Why):
To be clear, this film is definitely not for everyone. Ferrin doesn’t just push boundaries—he obliterates them. The intense scenes of sexual violence and body horror (including a nun moment I can’t describe) make Hellraiser seem like a children’s show. If you’re sensitive, best to steer clear.
The pacing falters in the last act, with Ferrin’s ambitions occasionally outstripping the budget. Some CGI effects look like they came from a 2007 screensaver, and the shift from a slow-building tension to chaotic scenes reminiscent of Evil Dead might leave you feeling a bit dizzy. Lovecraft fans might also be upset with some plot twists (spoiler: Lovecraft never mentioned Nazi war criminals with mutilated faces).
The Verdict:
Unspeakable: Beyond the Wall of Sleep is a beautiful mess that doesn’t hold back on its wildness. It’s a film that challenges you to look away while also pulling you in closer. Ferrin’s vision merges Lovecraft influences with grindhouse style, highlighting the ability of indie horror to shock, fascinate, and sometimes make you think about your choices in life.
Should you watch it?
If you enjoy bold, outrageous films that value wildness over perfection: Yes. Come prepared with a strong stomach, a sense of humor, and maybe a friend to hold onto during the wild moments.
If you like your horror to be more atmospheric and subtle (and yes, that’s “implied” for those unfamiliar with Lovecraft): Run.
Either way, it’s a film that will stick with you. And isn’t that what real cosmic horror is all about?
Rating: ★★★½ (3.5/5 stars) – A chaotic blend of brilliance and madness. Just don’t watch this with your parents.
