
The Ghoul
2017

Representation Score
Good
2020
Director
Valery Todorovsky
Runtime
112 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetNew Showbiz Analysis
Hypnosis is a character-driven psychological thriller that prioritizes genre tension and mental instability over diverse representation. The narrative structure centers around a male protagonist and a male authority figure, limiting the scope for diverse social perspectives. The film succeeds in giving a character dealing with a neurological condition a significant role in driving the story, treating his sleepwalking as a complex plot driver rather than a caricature. However, the lack of visible LGBTQ+ or diverse ethnic representation keeps the overall score low. Ultimately, the film functions as a localized study of the human mind. It leans into established thriller conventions rather than attempting to deconstruct systemic social hierarchies or promote diverse cultural identities.
Category Breakdown
The film does not include any explicit LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. The plot revolves around the psychological relationship between a teenage boy and his therapist.
The story centers on male characters, particularly Misha and Volkov. While it delves into individual mental ability to act, it does not actively challenge traditional gender hierarchies or feature strong female roles.
As a Russian production, the film appears to focus on a localized character study. There is no indication of diverse casting to challenge historical or ethnic norms.
The film explores psychological instability and the blurring of reality. It functions as a standard thriller rather than a critique of religious or social institutions.
Misha’s sleepwalking disorder is a central, complex element of his character arc. He transitions from a passive patient to an active investigator, gaining significant control over his situation.
Present on Screen
Limited or Absent
Official Synopsis
Teenage boy Misha attends hypnosis sessions with psychotherapist Volkov to recover from sleepwalking. As a result, Misha falls under the influence of a hypnologist to such an extent that he ceases to understand where reality is and where illusion is. After the mysterious death of one of Volkov’s patients, Misha decides to conduct an investigation to get to the bottom of the truth. But what if the dream and reality merged into one, and in the end he becomes the main suspect?

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