Clinical (2017) Movie Review
Title: Clinical
Director: Alistair Legrand
Release Date: January 13, 2017
Genre: Horror, Thriller
Runtime: 104 minutes
Overview
“Clinical” is a 2017 psychological horror-thriller directed by Alistair Legrand. The film stars Vinessa Shaw, Kevin Rahm, and India Eisley. “Clinical” follows the story of a psychiatrist who is struggling to put her life back together after a violent attack, only to be confronted with a new patient whose case unravels her fragile mental state.
Plot Summary
Dr. Jane Mathis (Vinessa Shaw) is a successful psychiatrist specializing in trauma therapy. After surviving a brutal attack by one of her patients, she struggles with PTSD and tries to rebuild her life and practice. As part of her recovery, Jane decides to take on fewer cases and focus on her own mental health.
However, her resolve is tested when she meets Alex (Kevin Rahm), a severely disfigured man seeking her help to deal with his own traumatic past. As Jane delves deeper into Alex’s case, she begins to experience terrifying visions and hallucinations, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare. As the haunting memories of her attack resurface, Jane must confront her own fears to uncover the truth about Alex’s trauma and her own.
Characters and Performances
- Vinessa Shaw as Dr. Jane Mathis: Shaw delivers a compelling and emotional performance as a psychiatrist grappling with her own trauma while trying to help others.
- Kevin Rahm as Alex: Rahm’s portrayal of the mysterious and troubled patient adds depth and tension to the film, keeping viewers on edge.
- India Eisley as Nora: Eisley plays a crucial role in Jane’s past and present, contributing to the film’s suspense and psychological complexity.
Visuals and Direction
Alistair Legrand’s direction emphasizes a dark and unsettling atmosphere, using dim lighting and claustrophobic settings to create a sense of dread. The film’s cinematography effectively conveys Jane’s deteriorating mental state, with distorted visuals and sudden, jarring cuts that enhance the horror elements. The use of practical effects and makeup for Alex’s disfigurement adds a layer of realism to the film’s eerie tone.
Themes and Messages
“Clinical” explores themes of trauma, guilt, and the fragility of the human mind. The film delves into the psychological impact of violence and the challenges of overcoming PTSD. It also examines the ethical boundaries between a therapist and patient, and the potential consequences of crossing those lines.
Streaming and Rental Options in America
For viewers interested in watching “Clinical,” here are the current streaming and rental options available in the United States:
- Netflix: Available for streaming.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
Conclusion
“Clinical” (2017) is a chilling psychological horror-thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With strong performances from Vinessa Shaw and Kevin Rahm, the film delves into the complexities of trauma and the human psyche. Alistair Legrand’s direction creates a tense and eerie atmosphere that effectively conveys the protagonist’s struggle with her own demons.
For fans of psychological thrillers and horror films, “Clinical” offers a gripping and haunting experience. Discover this unsettling film on popular streaming platforms and follow Dr. Jane Mathis as she navigates the dark and twisted path of her own mind.
