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Regression
2015 106 min Canada, Spain, United States of America R 18+
★4.8
Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Director: Alejandro Amenábar
Trailers
Description
Minnesota, 1990. Detective Bruce Kenner investigates the case of young Angela, who accuses her father, John Gray, of an unspeakable crime. When John unexpectedly and without recollection admits guilt, renowned psychologist Dr. Raines is brought in to help him relive his memories and what they discover unmasks a horrifying nationwide mystery.
Budget:
$20M
US Gross:
$55,039
Worldwide:
$17.67M
Starring
Ethan Hawke
Actor
David Thewlis
Actor
Emma Watson
Actor
Awards
1 win & 2 nominations total
Key opinion
Regression is a divisive psychological thriller that features strong performances from a talented lead cast but struggles to maintain consistent narrative tension. While some viewers appreciate its philosophical exploration of mass hysteria and religious paranoia, many critics find the plot predictable, the pacing sluggish, and the eventual payoff underwhelming.
| Acting | Ethan Hawke delivers a reliable and anchoring performance as the dogged investigator, though some viewers find the role lacks the range of his previous work. | |
| Theme | The film effectively utilizes an atmospheric, slow-burn approach to explore the societal dangers of the 1980s Satanic Panic and mass psychosis. | |
| Pacing | The pacing is a significant point of contention; some find the deliberate, contemplative build-up essential to the mystery, while others describe it as dull and lacking in genuine suspense. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay relies on tired occult tropes and predictable twists that fail to deliver a satisfying or surprising climax for the audience. |