Movie spotlight
Hysteria
A Croatian soldier turned boxer is haunted by disturbing dreams of the Virgin Mary that lead him to post-911 America (Oakland) to fulfill a religious vision in this suspenseful and timely look at the violence underlying any form of fundamentalism. Made in the months following the 9/11 attacks, the film offers a warning to anyone who misreads religious texts as a means to profaning the holiness of life.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary explores the historical phenomenon of 'hysteria' in women, tracing its diagnosis and treatment from ancient times through the Victorian era and into the early 20th century. It examines the societal, cultural, and medical perspectives that shaped the understanding of women's emotional and physical complaints, often labeling them as a form of madness.
Critical Reception
As a documentary focused on historical analysis rather than entertainment, 'Hysteria' received modest attention. It was appreciated for its academic approach to a complex and often misunderstood aspect of medical and social history, particularly concerning the treatment of women.
What Reviewers Say
Provides a well-researched look into the historical diagnosis of 'hysteria'.
Highlights the social and medical biases against women throughout history.
Offers an informative perspective on a controversial topic.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific documentary is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The concept of 'hysteria' as a medical diagnosis was officially removed from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1952, although its influence on societal perceptions of women's mental health persisted much longer.
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