Norwegian cinema is currently experiencing a surge in popularity, with acclaimed films like Joachim Trier’s The Worst Person in the World and Kristoffer Borgli’s Sick of Me making waves in the industry. Joining their ranks is The Hypnosis, the impressive feature debut from Ernst de Geer. This film strikes a balance between humor and drama, tackling modern themes such as life coaches, gurus, and new-tech start-ups, all within a framework reminiscent of Kristian Levring’s Fear Me Not. While it doesn’t follow the same melodramatic path, The Hypnosis raises thought-provoking questions about the human mind.
The story revolves around André (Herbert Nordrum) and Vera (Asta Kamma August), a young couple who are launching a women’s wellness app called Epione. They are invited to a pitch weekend called Shake Up, where they hope to secure funding for their project. Vera, wanting to address her smoking habit, seeks the help of a hypnotherapist. This decision sets off a chain of events that challenges their relationship and their business venture.
The title of the film, The Hypnosis, sets up certain expectations for the audience. However, the film’s exploration of the dynamics between André and Vera is where it truly shines. As they navigate the challenges of delivering their project, tensions arise, and their once harmonious partnership is tested. André, accustomed to Vera’s compliance, struggles when she starts asserting herself. Their disagreements escalate, leading to a pivotal moment where Vera sabotages André’s attempt to impress Julian, the enigmatic figure running the pitch weekend.
Julian becomes a central figure in the film, capturing André’s attention and causing a rift between him and Vera. After Vera’s hypnosis session, she undergoes a transformation, becoming unpredictable and even inventing an imaginary dog. André’s response, drugging Vera just enough to make her miss the pitching event, adds a comedic touch to the story.
While The Hypnosis has all the necessary elements to succeed, it falls short in delivering a satisfying ending. The focus shifts unexpectedly from Vera to André in the second half, as he tries to salvage their dream. Despite this narrative challenge, Herbert Nordrum’s understated performance as André earned him the festival’s Best Actor award.
Ultimately, The Hypnosis delves into the complexities of human behavior, challenging middle-class norms in an entertaining and thought-provoking manner. Like the works of the Triers (Joachim and Lars Von), de Geer’s film explores the gray areas of life and offers an unexpectedly enjoyable spectator sport.
Title: The Hypnosis
Festival: Karlovy Vary (Crystal Globes Competition)
Director: Ernst De Geer
Screenwriters: Mads Stegger, Ernst De Geer
Cast: Herbert Nordrum, Asta Kamma August
Running time: 1hr 38 min
Sales agent: Totem Films
