Released in 2019, Doctor Sleep is a psychological horror film based on Stephen King’s 2013 novel of the same name. It serves as both a sequel to King’s iconic 1977 novel The Shining and a continuation of the 1980 Stanley Kubrick film adaptation. Directed by Mike Flanagan, Doctor Sleep follows the story of Danny Torrance, the young boy from The Shining, who now struggles with trauma, addiction, and his supernatural abilities. The film delves into themes of redemption, trauma recovery, and the battle between good and evil, while maintaining a balance of paying homage to the original The Shining.
Plot Overview
The film picks up with Danny Torrance (Ewan McGregor) as an adult, living a troubled life, haunted by the memories of the Overlook Hotel and his father’s violent death. Struggling with alcoholism, Danny isolates himself from the world. However, he slowly begins to come to terms with his psychic abilities, known as the “shining,” and uses them to help people in a small town.
His life changes when he meets Abra Stone (Kyliegh Curran), a young girl with an extraordinarily powerful version of the “shining.” Abra becomes the target of a cult called the True Knot, led by the sinister Rose the Hat (Rebecca Ferguson). The True Knot feeds on the psychic energy of children who possess the shining, and Abra’s powers make her a prime target. Danny, now assuming the role of protector, must confront the dark forces threatening Abra while facing his own demons from the past.
Themes and Analysis
One of the central themes of Doctor Sleep is trauma and its long-lasting effects on an individual. Danny’s childhood experience at the Overlook Hotel has left deep scars on his psyche. His struggle with alcoholism symbolizes his attempt to numb the pain and avoid confronting his trauma. Throughout the film, Danny’s journey toward healing is depicted as both a personal and supernatural one. His eventual decision to help Abra and protect her from the True Knot represents his desire for redemption and self-forgiveness.
The battle between good and evil is another key theme in Doctor Sleep. The True Knot represents the forces of darkness, feeding on innocent children to prolong their existence, while Danny and Abra represent the forces of light, fighting to protect the vulnerable. The film draws parallels between these two groups, as both Danny and the True Knot possess the shining, but their intentions and moral alignments are starkly different.
Moreover, Doctor Sleep delves into the complexity of Danny’s psychic abilities. In the original The Shining, the concept of the “shining” was presented in a more mystical, enigmatic way. In Doctor Sleep, however, Flanagan explores it with more depth, showing how it can be both a gift and a curse. Danny learns to use his powers for good, while simultaneously acknowledging the danger that they can bring.
Connections to “The Shining”
A major aspect of Doctor Sleep is its connection to Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. Flanagan carefully integrates elements from both the original novel and the Kubrick film, while adding his own spin to the story. The film features several references to the Overlook Hotel and iconic imagery from the original, such as the hedge maze and the famous “Here’s Johnny!” scene, which will be familiar to fans of Kubrick’s film.
However, Doctor Sleep is not merely a nostalgia trip. It expands on the universe created in The Shining, offering a deeper exploration of Danny’s character and the consequences of his past. By doing so, the film successfully honors the legacy of The Shining while carving its own unique path.
Performances and Direction
Ewan McGregor’s portrayal of an older, more troubled Danny Torrance is one of the standout performances in Doctor Sleep. McGregor brings depth and vulnerability to the role, making Danny’s journey from self-doubt and addiction to self-realization both relatable and compelling. Kyliegh Curran also shines as Abra Stone, capturing the character’s innocence and strength. Rebecca Ferguson’s portrayal of Rose the Hat is chilling, bringing a sense of elegance and menace to the film’s antagonist.
Mike Flanagan’s direction is key to the film’s success. Known for his work on The Haunting of Hill House and Gerald’s Game, Flanagan’s ability to blend supernatural horror with emotional depth is evident in Doctor Sleep. The film balances moments of tension and terror with heartfelt moments of growth and healing, ensuring that it resonates with audiences on multiple levels.
Conclusion
Doctor Sleep is a successful sequel that builds on the foundation laid by The Shining, while offering a fresh perspective on the world created by Stephen King. It explores complex themes of trauma, redemption, and the battle between good and evil, all while delivering a compelling and suspenseful narrative. With strong performances, a gripping storyline, and thoughtful direction, Doctor Sleep stands as a worthy successor to its predecessor, offering both fans of The Shining and newcomers to the franchise an engaging cinematic experience.
