Is Regression Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Regression is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 106 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Regression Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2015, Regression emerges as a significant entry in the Horror, Mystery, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Minnesota, 1990. Unlike standard genre fare, Regression attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Regression features a noteworthy lineup led by Ethan Hawke . Supported by the likes of Emma Watson and David Thewlis , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Regression (2015) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.6/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Regression Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Regression is a Horror, Mystery, Thriller film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. Minnesota, 1990. Detective Bruce Kenner investigates the case of young Angela, who accuses her father, John Gray, of an unspeakable crime. When John unexpectedly and without recollection admits guilt, renowned psychologist Dr. Raines is brought in to help him relive his memories and what they discover unmasks a horrifying nationwide mystery. The film uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Regression Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Regression attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Regression reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Regression?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Regression Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $20.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $17.7M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Regression Budget
The estimated production budget for Regression is $20.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Regression
- Ethan Hawke – Bruce Kenner
- Emma Watson – Angela Gray
- David Thewlis – Professor Kenneth Raines
- Lothaire Bluteau – Reverend Beaumont
- Dale Dickey – Rose Gray
Top Highlights
Ethan HawkeBruce Kenner
Emma WatsonAngela Gray
David ThewlisProfessor Kenneth Raines
Lothaire BluteauReverend Beaumont
Dale DickeyRose Gray
David DencikJohn Gray
Devon BostickRoy Gray
Aaron AshmoreGeorge Nesbitt
Peter MacNeillPolice Chief Cleveland
Adam ButcherBrody
Where to Watch Regression Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
NetflixParents Guide & Age Rating
Regression is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.6/10, and global collection metrics, Regression stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2015 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Regression movie hit or flop?
Regression has received mixed reviews with a 5.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Regression worth watching?
Regression is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror, Mystery, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Regression online?
Regression is currently available for streaming on Netflix. You can also check for it on platforms like Netflix depending on your region.
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Critic Reviews for Regression
The making of the movie is good. The directing OKish and the cast is great and performs well. However, the story is an anti-climax one. Amenábar builds an atmosphere that promises a lot more than it delivers. In the end, it is just the only logical and down to earth story with unrolls well but it just drives the spectator to boredom. Good from the philosophical and logical point of view. Bad from the show perspective.
> When the case needs a physical evidence, but it can't reach to get one. Well, it is an investigation theme, something like the Oscar winner 'Spotlight'. After a teen girl Angela was reported of the sexual abuse, a detective named Bruce takes a special interest in solving the case. With the help of a psychologist, lots of ugly truth comes out. But the lack of the solid evidence makes the case slowly slip away from his hands. While his desperate effort to find whoever behind it, it only affect more Angela and her family. So how the story end is told with a twist in the third act. It was inspired by the real events of the late 80s. About the rise of the Satanic culture when panic was among the peoples of the United States. One of the best investigative films, with well developed mysteries around the plot. I found hard to predict, especially the twist was simple, but unexpected. Ms Watson was okay, but Ethan Hawke was excellent. From an awesome filmmaker, another wonderful film, yet not anywhere near to his other great works. Whenever a film based on the real, especially about crimes reveals the truth, we the people believe it and pour our supports to the victim. In that perspective, this film tests our capability to understand between the good and bad. Sometimes the things are not what it is supposed to be because of the overlook. Such theme was this that neatly narrated on the screen. I know this is not a masterpiece, but I don't understand why it is very underrated. This is actually a better psychological-thriller you would find in the recent time. Forget what the critics say, just give it a try, obviously it is slow, but in the end you would find it worth, at least most of you. 7/10
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
