Lifetime movies have carved a unique niche in television, particularly known for their suspenseful thrillers often centered around suburban nightmares. While once recognized for feel-good romances, the network evolved, embracing stories that lean into the darker side of life, with captivatingly ludicrous titles like In Bed With a Killer and Lethal Soccer Mom. Perhaps the epitome of this genre is Stalked By My Doctor, a 2015 film that introduced audiences to the unforgettable Dr. Albert Beck, played with delicious psychosis by the iconic Eric Roberts. Beck, a renowned heart surgeon, becomes dangerously obsessed with a teenage patient, setting the stage for a thrilling, if not entirely plausible, cinematic ride.
Promotional poster for "Stalked By My Doctor" movie, highlighting the title and lead actor Eric Roberts.
The original Stalked By My Doctor resonated with viewers, leading to two sequels, Stalked By My Doctor: The Return and Stalked By My Doctor: Patient’s Revenge, each bringing back Roberts as the unsettling Dr. Beck. Proving the adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” Lifetime expanded the series further with Stalked By My Doctor: A Sleepwalker’s Nightmare in 2019. This installment dives into the world of sleep disorders, blending medical scenarios with stalker horror in a way only Lifetime can deliver.
“Some patients are truly special…”
Stalked By My Doctor: A Sleepwalker’s Nightmare introduces us to Michelle (Emilie Ullerup), a woman in her thirties whose sleepwalking episode disrupts a wedding in a rather dramatic fashion – by kissing the groom. This embarrassing incident goes viral, pushing Michelle to seek professional help. Coincidentally, or perhaps fatefully for fans of high-stakes drama, Dr. Albert Beck resurfaces. Having evaded authorities, Beck is now working at a diner, but opportunity knocks when he learns of a sleep study expert heading to New Mexico. In a swift and convenient turn of events, Beck eliminates this doctor and assumes his identity, becoming Dr. Tanner.
Eric Roberts portraying Dr. Albert Beck/Dr. Tanner, with a sinister and charming smile, in a scene from "Stalked By My Doctor: A Sleepwalker's Nightmare".
On his first day at the New Mexico Sleep Study Center (NMSSC), Dr. Beck, now masquerading as Dr. Tanner, is introduced to Dr. Newman, played by none other than Felissa Rose, famed for her role in Sleepaway Camp. The casting choice adds a layer of genre familiarity for horror aficionados. Beck’s first patient is Michelle, the sleepwalking bride-to-be from the wedding mishap. Sensing a new target, Beck diagnoses Michelle with “sexsomnia,” a real condition involving sexual activity during sleep, which Beck exploits to weave his web of manipulation and obsession.
Emilie Ullerup as Michelle, looking concerned during a consultation with Dr. Beck, played by Eric Roberts, in "Stalked By My Doctor: A Sleepwalker's Nightmare".
The film delves into the depths of Dr. Beck’s fractured psyche, visualizing his inner turmoil through conversations with an imaginary, flamboyant alter ego. This “Laid Back Beck,” complete with Hawaiian shirts and cocktail in hand, provides both comedic relief and a disturbing insight into the doctor’s deranged mind. Eric Roberts’ portrayal of Beck is captivatingly unsettling. He masterfully embodies the creepy stalker lurking in the shadows, watching Michelle, waiting for his twisted fantasies to materialize.
Eric Roberts in a dual role as Dr. Beck and his "Laid Back Beck" alter ego, showcasing the character's internal conflict and descent into madness.
The plot thickens when Michelle’s niece, Katie (Angeline Appel), is introduced, also suffering from sleep-related issues. This development is, of course, a jackpot for Dr. Beck. His ultimate goal, consistent throughout the Stalked By My Doctor series, is to brainwash a young woman into loving him, a desire he pursues with murderous intent towards anyone who interferes. While the film humorously plays with these dark themes, it’s crucial to remember that stalking is a serious issue, and the movie is pure fiction.
Angeline Appel as Katie, looking vulnerable and potentially in danger, in a scene with Eric Roberts as Dr. Beck from "Stalked By My Doctor: A Sleepwalker's Nightmare".
Eventually, Michelle’s suspicion grows regarding Dr. Beck’s unorthodox methods, and Dr. Newman also begins to question his identity. In a classic thriller trope, asking questions around Dr. Beck is a dangerous path, often leading to unfortunate accidents. Eric Roberts, however, remains the undeniable highlight. He commits fully to the role, delivering a performance that is both over-the-top and mesmerizing. Whether in action blockbusters or made-for-TV movies, Roberts consistently delivers memorable, uninhibited performances. In Stalked By My Doctor: A Sleepwalker’s Nightmare, he elevates what could be a run-of-the-mill thriller into a wildly entertaining spectacle. Dr. Beck is ludicrous yet menacing, a ticking time bomb beneath a veneer of professional charm.
Eric Roberts as Dr. Beck in a climactic scene, expressing intense emotion, highlighting his committed and dramatic performance in "Stalked By My Doctor: A Sleepwalker's Nightmare".
For those who appreciate the unique charm of Lifetime thrillers and the committed performances of Eric Roberts, Stalked By My Doctor: A Sleepwalker’s Nightmare is a must-watch. Just remember to suspend disbelief and enjoy the ride. After all, these movies are designed for entertainment, and in that aspect, this film, much like Dr. Beck himself, delivers in a uniquely unforgettable way.
