Regression: Blu-Ray Review

regression

Arriving this week on Blu-ray, DVD, Digital HD, and On Demand is “Regression, which stars Ethan Hawke, Emma Watson, David Thewlis, and directed by Alejandro Amenábar (“The Others”).  With such talent behind and in front of the camera, I was hoping for something much better than what was delivered.  “Regression” isn’t a bad movie, but I just didn’t find it engaging.

Set in 1990 Minnesota, Detective Bruce Kenner (Hawke), finds himself working with psychologist Dr. Raines (Thewlis) to uncover the truth about the physical abuse of young Angela (Watson).  Even though her father, who she accuses admits guilt and that a local cop (Aaron Ashmore) was involved,  there seems to be a lot more to the story.  The deeper Kenner digs, the sooner he realizes that a satanic cult may be involved.  As Kenner continues on with his investigation, he becomes mentally unstable. He begins to have visions based on the information he has been given by Angela.

“Regression” is definitely a nice looking horror-thriller, and the cast does the best with the material they are working with, but the writing here is just flat.  There are a few surprising twists, but even those don’t do much to improve things.  If you are a fan of Hawke and Watson, it might be worth giving “Regression” a look , but that really the best thing I can say.

By: Marc Ferman

Order: Regression (Blu-ray)