Dreams with Sharp Teeth

Dreams with Sharp Teeth is a 2008 documentary that gives viewers a glimpse into the chaotic world of award-winning science fiction writer Harlan Ellison. The film provides an in-depth look into his personal and professional life and depicts him as a man who has a razor-sharp intelligence and a biting wit that can both inspire and alienate those around him.

The movie is filled with interviews of Ellison's peers and colleagues, as well as with a range of iconic writers, thinkers and celebrities such as Robin Williams, Neil Gaiman and Buck Henry, among others. They all share their thoughts on what makes Ellison unique and why he is considered one of the most influential science fiction writers of our time.

The documentary follows Ellison as he goes about his daily routine, which mostly involves writing in his cluttered office or engaging with his fans on the internet. We also see him giving talks and lectures, including a memorable one where he uses a blowtorch to burn an edited version of his story "I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream."

One of the most striking things about Dreams with Sharp Teeth is how candid Ellison is about his personal life. He talks openly about his three marriages and his struggle with depression, painting a picture of himself as someone who is both flawed and deeply human. At one point, he even admits to having attempted suicide multiple times.

The movie also explores Ellison's creative process, highlighting his work as a screenwriter and producer in Hollywood. He is shown collaborating with other writers on projects such as the original Star Trek series and The Outer Limits. The interviews with his colleagues offer insight into how he works and how his approach to storytelling has influenced the genre of science fiction as a whole.

Throughout Dreams with Sharp Teeth, we see Ellison as an intense, complex figure, one who is often combative and confrontational with those he perceives as his enemies. At the same time, we see him as an artist who is deeply passionate about his work, and who has a profound influence on those around him.

The movie pays homage to his incredible body of work, featuring readings of his stories by the likes of William Shatner and Neil Gaiman. We get a sense of the range of his writing talent, from the ominous horror of "I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream" to the raw emotional power of "Jefty is Five."

While the documentary emphasises on Ellison's personal life, it also delves into the larger themes of his work, including his criticism of modern society and his preoccupation with death. Through all of this, we get a sense of the man behind the words and the lasting impact he has had on the world of science fiction.

In conclusion, Dreams with Sharp Teeth is a fascinating and compelling documentary that offers rare insight into the life of one of the most influential science fiction writers of our time. Its frank and honest portrayal of Harlan Ellison provides a glimpse into the mind and the creative process of a true original, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in science fiction or just great storytelling.