Directed by Alejandro Amenábar, Regression is a 2015 psychological thriller that delves into the unsettling territory of repressed memories and moral panic. Set in 1990s Minnesota, the film follows Detective Bruce Kenner (Ethan Hawke) as he investigates the case of Angela Gray (Emma Watson), a young woman who accuses her father of unspeakable crimes after recovering traumatic memories through regression therapy. As Kenner partners with psychologist Dr. Raines (David Thewlis), their investigation uncovers what appears to be evidence of a widespread satanic cult, plunging them into a world of paranoia and uncertainty.

The film's strength lies in its atmospheric tension and strong performances. Ethan Hawke delivers a compelling portrayal of a detective grappling with his own beliefs as the case grows increasingly disturbing. Emma Watson effectively captures Angela's fragile state, while David Thewlis provides grounded counterpoint as the rational psychologist. Amenábar's direction creates a palpable sense of dread, using the film's 1990s setting to explore themes of mass hysteria and the reliability of memory.

Regression works best as a mood piece that questions how societies construct narratives around trauma. While some critics found the pacing deliberate, the film's ambiguity about what's real and what's manufactured creates genuine psychological unease. The cinematography enhances this effect with its muted palette and claustrophobic framing. For viewers interested in thought-provoking thrillers that explore the intersection of psychology, crime, and social panic, Regression offers a compelling watch that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.