Hypnotic (2021)

A woman who begins psychotherapy discovers unexpected consequences.

'Hypnotic' is a psychological thriller with an interesting idea, but one that has been used before, not necessarily in better ways. The execution is not bad, but unfortunately the script fails to use the raw material in an effective, believable or memorable way.

Director:  Matt Angel, Suzanne Coote   

With: Kate Siegel, Jason O'Mara, Dulé Hill, Lucie Guest

Rating: 6/10

Nocturne (2020)

Despite her obvious natural talent, a pianist resorts to a Faustian pact to become the most celebrated artist in a prestigious competition.

"Nocturne" is a psychological horror film that uses the horror element to highlight the depth of an obsession for perfection, common in so many talented souls. Paranoia, mistrust of reality, the desire to overcome any apparent obstacle, even the very genuine sisterly love, are all elements intensively worked on and studied to build an intense story. Imperfect, but it definitely leaves an unmistakeable impression.

Director:  Zu Quirke   

With: Sydney Sweeney, Madison Iseman, Jacques Colimon, Ivan Shaw

Rating: 7.5/10

Possum (2018)

A disgraced puppeteer returns to his parental home where the reunion with his stepfather brings unexpected memories.

'Possum' is a psychological film, largely artistic, almost abstract. Extremely well acted by Sean Harris, the film is deep, but haunting, intelligent, but rambling and repetitive, the invested art seeming much more suitable for a short.

Director:  Matthew Holness     

With: Sean Harris, Alun Armstrong, Andy Blithe, Ryan Enever

Rating: 7/10

InSight (2011)

A nurse begins to have visions about the circumstances in which of one of her patients died.

A psychological horror thriller with many hidden aspects. The idea and the ending are quite original but something is just missing and that prevents InSight from being perceived as special. The slow pace and perhaps the low budget contribute to this. The pain of losing someone close is strong and the film deserves attention at least for the way it develops this idea.

Director:  Richard Gabai   

With: Sean Patrick Flanery, Natalie Zea, Angeline-Rose Troy, Adam Baldwin

Rating: 6/10