Session 9

The movie unfolds in the mid-1980s, a period marked by shifts in mental health care and the evolution of asylums into more community-oriented facilities. The lingering impact of previous lawsuits ignites a sense of dread, reflecting society's struggle with understanding mental illness. This period encapsulates a transition, from neglect to newfound awareness, while still being shadowed by the past.

Kirkbride Mental Health Hospital, established in 1871, is a significant yet eerie location known for its long history as an asylum. Having been closed for nearly fifteen years, the hospital's dark past is riddled with stories of trauma and neglect, making it the perfect setting for unsettling events. As renovations begin, the haunting presence of the hospital's history looms over its new purpose.

😨 Fear

Fear pervades the narrative, manifesting in psychological tension among characters as they confront their own demons. The haunting atmosphere of the hospital serves as a catalyst for paranoia and terror, leading individuals to their breaking point. The fear of the unknown and the consequences of buried trauma create a gripping exploration of psychological horror.

💔 Isolation

Isolation is central to the experience of the characters, both physically in the hospital and emotionally in their personal lives. Each character faces their own struggles that cut them off from one another, amplifying their feelings of loneliness and despair. This theme underscores the devastating effects of mental health struggles, often leaving individuals feeling alone in their pain.

🔍 Truth

The pursuit of truth drives much of the plot, particularly through Mike’s discovery of Mary Hobbes' recorded sessions. As he listens to her stories, the search for understanding reveals dark secrets that have long been hidden. This journey exposes the shocking reality of mental illness, shedding light on the complexities behind each character's behavior.