"Hysteria" is a period film set in the 19th century when women would be diagnosed as "hysterical" for a list of issues including sleeplessness, nervousness, depression, cramps, exhaustion, and so on. A young doctor Mortimer Granville (Hugh Dancy) joins the established practice of Dr. Robert Dalrymple (Jonathon Price), which treats hysterical women in an, ahem, interesting way (called "pelvic massage)." Mortimer soon meets the elder doctor's two very different daughters: the proper and dutiful Emily (Felicity Jones) and the outspoken feminist Charlotte (Maggie Gyllenhaal). A new treatment for hysteria is invented when Mortimer and his friend Lord Edmund St. John-Smythe (Rupert Everett) find a new use for an electrical feather duster. What we know as a vibrator is born and hysteria as a diagnosis falls out of fashion.
Though it's a bit predictable, this film is enjoyable and shows some heart. Gyllenhaal is perfect for this part as the fiery Charlotte. Though she can be a bit shrill at times I think Gyllenhaal was the right choice for this role. Everett is a treat in his small role as well. I really liked the theme developed within the film juxtaposing hysteria and feminism, which we see in the storyline for Charlotte. Quality acting in this one with some laughs mixed in. Be sure to watch the scenes played through the credits!
Solid B for me for good story and acting
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