Entertainment Blog #307 | Daniel Isn't Real [2019] : Imaginary Friend or Imaginary Monster??

Daniel Isn't Real explores the thin line between imagination and reality, a theme that resonates deeply in our everyday lives. The film delves into the psyche of its protagonist, Luke, who resurrects his childhood imaginary friend during a turbulent phase of his life. I think this movie acts as a metaphor for how people often cope with trauma and mental health issues, blurring the boundaries between helpful support and destructive influence. The narrative invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences with imaginary friends or coping mechanisms, raising questions about the nature of reality and the potential dangers of unexamined mental states.

Released in 2019, Daniel Isn't Real premiered at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival before making its way to theaters and digital platforms. Directed by Adam Egypt Mortimer and co-written by Mortimer and Brian DeLeeuw, the film features a talented cast including Miles Robbins as Luke, Patrick Schwarzenegger as Daniel, and Sasha Lane as Cassie. Despite its modest budget, the film garnered attention for its unique premise and psychological depth.

The story begins with young Luke witnessing a traumatic event that leads him to create an imaginary friend named Daniel. Initially, Daniel serves as a source of comfort and companionship. However, after a harrowing incident involving Luke's mentally ill mother, he is forced to lock Daniel away.

Twelve years later, as an insecure college student struggling with his mother's deteriorating mental state, Luke is encouraged by his therapist to reconnect with his childhood imagination. When he frees Daniel from the confines of his mind, he finds himself drawn into a whirlwind of charisma and confidence that Daniel provides. Yet, this newfound assertiveness comes at a cost—Daniel's influence begins to warp Luke's reality in increasingly sinister ways.

As Luke's relationship with Daniel deepens, he begins to experience both exhilarating highs and terrifying lows. Initially, Daniel helps him navigate social situations and pursue romantic interests, but it soon becomes clear that Daniel has his own agenda. The film masterfully builds tension as Luke grapples with whether Daniel is merely a figment of his imagination or something far more malevolent. The visuals are striking, enhancing the psychological horror elements while keeping viewers on edge about Daniel's true nature.

What sets Daniel Isn't Real apart from other horror films is its exploration of mental illness through the lens of psychological horror rather than traditional jump scares or gore. While many horror films exploit mental health tropes for shock value, this film attempts to engage with these themes more thoughtfully. It raises important questions about identity, agency, and the consequences of unresolved trauma.

Critical reception has been mixed but generally favorable. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.1/10; Rotten Tomatoes gives it a 73% approval rating based on critic reviews; Metacritic scores it at 61; and Google users rate it at 78%. Critics have praised its performances—particularly Robbins' portrayal of Luke—but some have noted that the film doesn't fully realize its ambitious themes.

With a budget estimated at around $1 million, Daniel Isn't Real has performed reasonably well at the box office, grossing approximately $1.5 million globally. In conclusion, while Daniel Isn't Real may not fully deliver on its thought-provoking premise or escape some genre clichés, it remains an engaging watch for those interested in psychological horror that challenges perceptions of reality. The film invites audiences to confront their own inner demons while navigating the complexities of mental health in an increasingly chaotic world.