Quartile rating: 5.5/10 · 1 rating
A young woman seeking self-improvement enlists the help of a renowned hypnotist but, after a handful of intense sessions, discovers unexpected and deadly consequences.
Hypnotic (2021) is a fairly unremarkable psychological thriller that fails to capitalize on its intriguing premise. The plot starts with promise but quickly devolves into familiar territory with predictable twists and clichéd beats. The acting is serviceable but uninspired, with characters that feel thinly written. Cinematography is competent but generic, offering nothing visually distinctive. The concept of hypnosis as a horror/thriller device is well-worn, and this film brings little fresh perspective to it. The ending is underwhelming and leaves little impression. Across all categories the film sits firmly in below-average to average territory, consistent with its modest critical and audience reception.