How to Survive: Paprika (2006)

How to Survive

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It’s episode 290…and the Internet and dreams are similar. They're areas where the repressed conscious mind escapes.

Paprika (2006) follows its titular dream-based protagonist, and her real-life alter ego Dr Atsuko Chiba, as she administers a futuristic form of therapy using a prototype device called the DC Mini. However, when so-called ‘Dream Terrorists’ steal the devices and use it to run rampant through other people’s dreams with disastrous results, it’s up to Dr Chiba and her motley crue of scientists to find them before it’s too late.

We break down the second half of Anime horror/Satoshi Kon/’films that Hollywood sort of remade with just enough changes to avoid a lawsuit’ season (what could this film about a device that allows you to invade other people’s dreams have inspired I wonder?) and discuss the joys and pains of a creative portrayal of limitless dreamspace, characters both paper thin and fatphobic, and rank spices/condiments based on Joe’s usage relative to Ketchup and Mayo. Plus, what would make Chris finally commit to buying a neuralink?

All of which leads to one question: How would you survive?

Whatever happens, one thing's for sure: The shade of the tree with the flowers that bloom at night is where the residents of darkness rest. The people of daytime are not allowed!

Next time on the main feed, it’s Spider season, with creepy-crawly classic Arachnophobia (1990).