Story perspectives

Uneven Thriller Explores Trauma Through Hypnosis in Syria

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Simeon Halligan’s memory-regression thriller stars Jeremy Piven as a celebrity hypnotist guiding journalist Jason (Aneurin Barnard) back to Syria to confront trauma.
The film blends psychological drama and horror as Jason journeys through his past lives.
It layers creepy subliminals and suffers from contrivances, especially in the final stretch.
The result is engaging but uneven, offering a low-budget British pulp experience that lacks the captivation of Danny Boyle’s Trance.

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Story summary

Simeon Halligan’s memory-regression thriller stars Jeremy Piven as a celebrity hypnotist guiding journalist Jason (Aneurin Barnard) back to Syria to confront trauma.
The film blends psychological drama and horror as Jason journeys through his past lives.
It layers creepy subliminals and suffers from contrivances, especially in the final stretch.
The result is engaging but uneven, offering a low-budget British pulp experience that lacks the captivation of Danny Boyle’s Trance.