Dreams with Sharp Teeth

Synopsis

Dreams with Sharp Teeth is a captivating documentary that explores the life and legacy of famed science fiction writer Harlan Ellison. Released in 2008, the film delves into Ellison's complex personality, his relentless pursuit of creativity, and his impact on the genre he helped shape. Combining interviews with the author himself, as well as commentary from peers, critics, and fans, the documentary paints a vibrant portrait of a man known for his acerbic wit and uncompromising standards. Viewers are treated to a rich tapestry of Ellison’s writings, including his award-winning short stories and screenplays, alongside personal anecdotes that reveal the trials and triumphs of his extraordinary career. The film seamlessly weaves together themes of imagination, originality, and the bitter struggle of an artist against the constraints of mainstream culture. Uniting both humor and depth, it offers an intimate and often provocative look at the man behind the pen, leaving audiences with a greater appreciation for the literary genius that was Harlan Ellison.

Cast

• 

  Harlan Ellison

  himself

• 

  Neil Gaiman

  Himself

• 

  Haskell Barkin

  Himself

• 

  Robin Williams

  Himself

• 

  Ronald D. Moore

  Self

Reviews

Dreams with Sharp Teeth has been met with acclaim from critics and audiences alike. It holds an impressive 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, where the consensus reads, 'An engaging portrait of a genius, full of insight and entertainment.' The documentary's unique structure, featuring both Ellison's literary works and personal reflections, has been highlighted by many reviewers. According to IMDb, the film boasts a respectable rating of 7.7/10, which indicates widespread appreciation among viewers. Metacritic scores it at 64/100, signifying generally favorable reviews. Michael Koresky from Reverse Shot describes the film as 'A fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of sci-fi's most maddening yet brilliant figures.' Meanwhile, Gwendolyn Audrey Foster of the Chicago Reader notes that the documentary 'not only explores Ellison's genius but also serves as a reflection on the challenges faced by artists in contemporary society.' Overall, Dreams with Sharp Teeth captures the essence of Harlan Ellison's tumultuous journey as a writer and offers ample material for thoughtful discussion about the nature of creativity and the sometimes contentious relationship between authors and the worlds they create.

See also

Slayers Return

Extraction

Satan

Muzzle