Is Ben Affleck the Weakest Link in the Mind-Bending Thriller Hypnotic?

Directed by Robert Rodriguez and co-written by Max Borenstein, “Hypnotic” digs into the depths of the mind, taking viewers on a psychological rollercoaster and at the same time blurring the lines between reality and illusion.

The film received mostly negative reviews from critics, with RogerEbert.com saying “it seems to reflect a crisis of imagination.” The movie scored 35% on Rotten Tomatoes, with an audience rating of 63%. While the film has its flaws, it manages to deliver a marginally suspenseful storyline that will keep you engaged.

Unveiling a World of Secrets: Detective Rourke’s Desperate Search for Answers

Affleck portrays Danny Rourke, a detective haunted by the abduction of his daughter. When he stumbles upon a bank heist and a mysterious man named Lev Dellrayne, played with enigmatic intensity by an excellent Jackie Earle Haley, Rourke becomes entangled in a world of powerful hypnotists and government secrets.

Rourke delves deeper into the hypnotists’ realm, desperate to uncover the truth behind his daughter’s disappearance. The pacing is well-crafted, with Rodriguez’s direction ensuring that tension builds steadily throughout the movie. Although marginally predictable, plot twist, was surprising.

Affleck Struggle to Shine in Hypnotic

However, Affleck’s performance as Rourke wooden and distracting. Although he is known for his great performances in his earlier roles, the same cannot be said for his performance in Hypnotic.

Regrettably, his acting in Hypnotic falls fairly short of the standards set by his performance in Good Will Hunting and even his depiction of a fallen angel in the cult classic, Dogma. Rather than building upon his past achievements, Affleck’s portrayal was bland, failing to capture the essence of some of his earlier roles.

Affleck’s grieving father persona is portrayed with an infinitely monotone facial expression that doesn’t allow for much emotional depth. This emotional detachment may have been a deliberate choice to highlight Rourke’s resilience and determination, but it leaves something to be desired in terms of character development. At times, it was like watching a brooding variant of Bruce Wayne.

Alice Braga Shines and Her Performance Brings Depth to Diana Cruz

On the other hand, Alice Braga gives a commendable performance as Diana Cruz, a fortuneteller and fellow hypnotist who becomes Rourke’s ally. Alice Braga performance brings some much needed emotion. She brings a sense of vulnerability and strength to her character, balancing the film’s intense moments with a touch of humanity with her subtle transition from a secret agent to a loving mother, eclipsing Affleck’s wooden acting.

Rodriguez’s Signature Style Elevates the Film’s Aesthetics

The visual style of Hypnotic is a standout aspect of the film. Rodriguez’s signature flair for striking cinematography and stylish action sequences is on full display. The hypnotic constructs and mind-bending environments created by the characters add an extra layer of visual interest, immersing viewers in a surreal and hypnotizing world.

Predictable Twist

The film’s final act delivers a satisfying culmination of the plot, though some viewers may find the resolution to be a bit predictable. However, minus Affleck, the overall performances from the cast keep the audience engaged, even if they may anticipate certain plot points.

Hypnotic Takes Viewers on a Mind-Bending Ride

Hypnotic is a captivating and thrilling science fiction thriller that takes viewers on a gripping journey through the world of hypnotists and government secrets. While Ben Affleck’s performance may not reach the heights of his previous notable roles, the film as a whole delivers an engrossing experience.

With its stylish visuals and intricate plot twists, Affleck’s subpar performance doesn’t take away from the film’s good pacing and tension. Hypnotic is a movie that will leave audiences questioning their own perceptions of reality long after the credits roll.