Sleep Dealer

Rarely does science fiction cinema depict the future of the 'third world', if at all. Alex Rivera's film, primarily set in the state of Oaxaca and the city of Tijuana, Mexico, certainly proves originality in its premise and vision of the future. But while Sleep Dealer's inventive depiction of the future of human labor, immigration and transnational borders is extremely interesting and thought provoking, Rivera fails to achieve engaging storytelling. The plot feels flat and characters seem one dimensional. Both actors remain unconnected with each other and the story. Their actions, at times, seem unmotivated and contradictory. I understand how this film could have been so much more, unfortunately it wasn't. Aside from director Rivera's critique on social and political progress, the story fails to break through.

Frankly, I admire Rivera more for his social, political and progressive vision rather than for his cinematic skills. The film, in the end, feels rough around the edges and leaves a bit to be desired…But still a good effort from a first time director, especially for such an ambitious project.

6 out of 10.