Room to Dream by David Lynch. David is one of cinema’s most creative and avaunt-guard film directors today. In other words a “regular” autobiography of his life and art does not fit. This is more of a memoir with journalist Kristine McKenna, a writer for the Los Angeles Times until 1998.
Room to Dream easily addresses his biographical story. His creative life as an artist flourished in art school. The challenges for David over many years in creating The Elephant Man is insightful. His story of making Eraserhead, during his time with AFI takes center stage in his life. As David’s first recognized film, the story is enjoyable to discover his experiences how the movie came together over a long period.
At the same time the book reveals small, yet fun stories of his life that contributed to elements in both Twin Peaks and later in the movie Mulholland Drive. Fans of his hit television show would relish how ‘the bag that smiles’ came into the show’s script. On the other hand ABC Television purchased the rights to develop Mulholland Drive as a television series. With David’s surreal style, how did anyone at ABC think they could deliver this work as a normal TV show?
After that, Blue Velvet, Lost Highway, Island Empire and Wild at Heart are notable movies addressed by David. But they have passing paragraphs of insight.
In addition, I remember reading Catching the Big Fish, back in 2007 as David shared insights on Transcendental Meditation. He expands upon that source and deeper influence that taps his creative side but also his personal happiness.
Still not convinced to read this book? For many who view movie making in passing, with only an interest around box office sales or awards broadcast on television — you may not know his work. In conclusion Room to Dream is an insightful memoir that reveals a life story also decorated in awards of another kind.
AVID | David Lynch and the Independent Filmmaker
BAMorg | David Lynch: Where do ideas come from?