Hypnotic, directed by Robert Rodriguez and starring Ben Affleck, is finally releasing in US theaters after distributor issues. The film follows Detective Danny Rourke as he investigates reality-bending crimes involving his missing daughter and a secret government program. The movie is a mixed bag, with both cool and frustrating choices that may split the audience. The solid first act sets up the mystery well and keeps the audience engaged. However, as the film progresses, it becomes convoluted and relies too heavily on exposition scenes, which is disappointing considering its high production cost. The plot takes numerous twists and turns, some ambitious but silly or far-fetched. The main reveal is intriguing and recontextualizes previous events. Despite its flaws, Hypnotic is entertaining with its brisk pace and 93-minute runtime. Affleck delivers a compelling performance, reminiscent of his earlier work, while Braga showcases her acting abilities and has chemistry with Affleck. Fichtner stands out as a menacing villain. The film reminds us of Rodriguez’s action direction skills. Overall, Hypnotic is a watchable film, though its execution and storytelling could have been better, lacking the energy and style expected from Rodriguez. Nonetheless, it’s commendable that a film of this scale found a theatrical release. If the premise piques your interest, it may be worth checking out. Visit afdah movies for more!
