Dead Dreams of Monochrome Men (1989)

British dance troupe DV8 Physical Theatre’s interpretation of serial murderer Dennis Nilsen and the effects of societal homophobia: DEAD DREAMS OF MONOCHROME MEN.

DEAD DREAMS OF MONOCHROME MEN is, in part, based on the killings of Dennis Nilsen, who was active between 1978 and 1983 in North London. It is also an examination of the results of societal homophobia, and Nilsen’s urge to kill for companionship. The production is set in two locations: at a gay club, where Nilsen would meet men, and at his home.

DEAD DREAMS originated as an award-winning stage production in 1988, and then was adapted to film by DV8, as well as director David Hinton, and it eventually aired on Britain's ITV Network. According to a 1993 article by The Independent, after it premiered on television it was referred to in a review as a “Gay Sex 0rgy on TV” and met with calls from angry viewers.

There wasn’t anything terribly explicit in the film, but it seems viewers had a problem with male-to-male intimacy; not surprising, given that homophobia had increased considerably at this time due to the AIDS pandemic and anti-gay laws in the UK.

DEAD DREAMS OF MONOCHROME MEN is a visual masterpiece. It’s intense, sensual and disturbing. You can find it streaming for rent/purchase on Vimeo, and available on DVD and Blu-ray.

DEAD DREAMS OF MONOCHROME MEN

1989. UK.

Director: David Hinton

Choreographer: Lloyd Newson

Starring: Lloyd Newson, Nigel Charnock, Russell Maliphant and Douglas Wright