A Dangerous Method - Movie Review by Chris Stuckmann

Summary

In this review of *A Dangerous Method* (directed by David Cronenberg), the reviewer discusses the film's exploration of psychoanalysis, focusing on the relationship between Freud (Viggo Mortensen) and Jung (Michael Fassbender), and their treatment of Sabina Spielrein (Keira Knightley). The performances, particularly Knightley’s bold portrayal, are praised, despite some criticism of her over-the-top expressions. Cronenberg's direction is noted for its intense close-ups, especially in the first half, but the film's pacing falters as it progresses. Ultimately, the reviewer gives the film a B+, recommending it for fans of the director's work.

Takeaways

• 😀 *A Dangerous Method* is directed by David Cronenberg, known for his long and successful career in film.
• 😀 The movie focuses on Sigmund Freud (Viggo Mortensen) and Carl Jung (Michael Fassbender) as they pioneer the concept of psychoanalysis.
• 😀 The film’s central patient, played by Keira Knightley, suffers from trauma due to an abusive father, which is explored through psychoanalysis.
• 😀 The narrative revolves around Freud and Jung’s methods of using therapy to help patients understand and resolve their psychological issues.
• 😀 The acting in the film is highly praised, especially by the reviewer who highlights Michael Fassbender and Viggo Mortensen's performances.
• 😀 Keira Knightley’s portrayal of a traumatized patient is polarizing; some find her performance over-the-top, but the reviewer appreciates her commitment to portraying raw emotions.
• 😀 Knightley’s physicality in the role—her contorting face and body—adds intensity to the film's first half.
• 😀 The reviewer appreciates Cronenberg’s direction, particularly how he holds on close-up shots of Knightley’s dramatic facial expressions.
• 😀 While the first half of the film is intense and dramatic, the second half is noted to lose some of that energy and momentum.
• 😀 Despite the film dragging slightly in the latter half, the reviewer still believes *A Dangerous Method* is worth watching, giving it a B+ rating.

Q & A

What is the movie 'A Dangerous Method' about?

The movie 'A Dangerous Method' explores the origins of psychoanalysis, focusing on the relationship between Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, and their patient Sabina Spielrein. It delves into their experimental methods of therapy and the personal and professional tensions that arose between the figures.

Who are the main actors in the film and who do they play?

The main actors in 'A Dangerous Method' are Viggo Mortensen, who plays Sigmund Freud, Michael Fassbender, who portrays Carl Jung, and Keira Knightley, who plays the patient Sabina Spielrein.

What role does Sabina Spielrein play in the film?

Sabina Spielrein is a patient of Freud and Jung, and her treatment becomes a central part of the story. She suffers from trauma due to an abusive father, and her treatment by Freud and Jung serves as a test case for their developing psychoanalytic methods.

What was the general opinion of Keira Knightley's performance in the film?

The general opinion was divided. Some criticized her performance as over the top and too exaggerated, especially her physical expressions. However, others found her portrayal effective, as she was unafraid to make her character appear vulnerable and physically contorted to reflect the intensity of the trauma.

What is unique about David Cronenberg's direction in this film?

David Cronenberg's direction is notable for its unflinching approach to the physical and emotional turmoil of the characters. Particularly, he uses close-up shots of Keira Knightley's character, capturing her contorted expressions and emotional intensity without cutting away from her, emphasizing the rawness of the psychological struggle.

How is the acting described in the film?

The acting is described as impressive, particularly Michael Fassbender and Viggo Mortensen. However, Keira Knightley’s performance stands out due to its intensity, even though some viewers found it excessive. Overall, the acting is one of the film’s strengths.

What is the criticism regarding the pacing of 'A Dangerous Method'?

The film is critiqued for losing intensity as it progresses. While the opening is dramatic and engaging, the latter half of the film is considered to drag and lacks the same level of intensity, causing it to feel less compelling.

What themes are explored in the film?

The film explores themes of psychoanalysis, the human mind, trauma, and the boundaries between personal and professional relationships. It also touches on the challenges of establishing a new field of therapy and the personal costs associated with such intellectual pursuits.

How does the reviewer feel about the film overall?

The reviewer generally enjoys the film, appreciating the direction and performances, especially by Michael Fassbender and Viggo Mortensen. However, they acknowledge the film’s pacing issues in the second half and note that it doesn't match the quality of some of David Cronenberg's other works. The final rating is a B+.

What is the significance of the title 'A Dangerous Method'?

The title 'A Dangerous Method' refers to the pioneering and controversial psychoanalytic methods developed by Freud and Jung. The term 'dangerous' highlights the psychological risks and ethical dilemmas involved in their experimental treatment of patients like Sabina Spielrein.