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Cast: Ethan Hawke, Emma Watson, David Dencik, David Thewlis, Dale Dickey
Minnesota, 1990. Detective Bruce Kenner (Ethan Hawke) investigates the case of young Angela (Emma Watson), who accuses her father, John Gray (David Dencik), of an unspeakable crime. When John unexpectedly and without recollection admits guilt, renowned psychologist Dr. Raines (David Thewlis) is brought in to help him relive his memories and what they discover unmasks a horrifying nationwide mystery.
"Regression" tells the story of Seventeen-year old Angela Gray who finds safety in a local church after writing a letter accusing her father of sexually assaulting her. When Detective Bruce Kenner questions the father he never denies doing it but says he can't remember either but he believes his daughter would never lie. The father meekly admits to the crime, but does not actually recall doing it. After the Detective brings in a local Psychology professor to help unlock the father's memory the more bazaar and disturbing things become.
"Regression" is a very good mystery/thriller that could have even better if it were not for a few script related issues. The film is well-written and it keeps you clued to the screen as you wait, wanting to know more. As the film moves along there are a number of twists tossed at us, which just thickens the mystery and suspense.
Another good thing about the film was the amazing cast, Ethan Hawke is terrific as the Detective assigned to the case and Emma Watson does an excellent job as well as the young Angela. The rest of the supporting cast all did a great job as well.
Director, Alejandro Amenábar does a great job creating loads of atmosphere but the one thing that hurts the film a bit is the script. I don't want to ruin the film for those who haven't had the chance to see it yet but I will say that it could have had a better conclusion and the motive seemed a bit weal to me as well. In the end I enjoyed the film and would recommend seeing if you like a good thriller with a lot of mystery. It started off really good but kind of fell apart toward the end, still worth checking out for the amazing performance by Hawke.
"Regression" is available on DVD and Blu-ray with Special Features that include:
Ethan Hawke - Bruce's Obsession
Emma Watson - The Complexity of Angela
The Cast of Regression
The Vision of Regression
You can order the Blu-ray HERE and the DVD HERE.
Released by Anchor Bay Entertainment
*** 1/2 Out of *****