A biography of the eighteenth century Viennese physician, Franz Anton Mesmer, who used unorthodox healing practices based on his theory of "animal magnetism."
Acting
Rickman's eyes alone could cure hysteria, honestly.
Production
Muddy, candlelit Vienna that reeks of authenticity and chamber pots.
Director
Roger Spottiswoode
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The real Maria Theresia Paradies was a celebrated blind pianist; Mesmer's 'cure' temporarily restored her sight, but she lost it again after leaving his care, possibly from trauma.
Rickman fought to get this made for years, believing Mesmer's story exposed how medical establishments destroy innovators—ironic given the film's critical dismissal.
US
