Anthony Hopkins stars as Sigmund Freud in the film 'Freud's Last Session', which explores a fictional encounter between Freud and the author C.S. Lewis in London during World War II. The film delves into a debate over the existence of God and explores personal relationships of the past and present. The trailer for the film has been released, showcasing the meeting between Freud and Lewis in 1945. The film presents a fictionalized encounter where Freud psychoanalyzes Lewis, sparking a debate between the devout Christian Lewis and the atheist Freud about the nature of the divine. While there is no historical evidence of such a meeting, the film offers an imaginative exploration of their encounter. 'Freud's Last Session' stars Robert Stephens as Freud and C.S. Lewis as Lewis. It is set to be released in select theaters in Los Angeles and New York on December 22nd.
However, according to a review by Siddhant Adlakha from Polygon, 'Freud's Last Session' fails to live up to its premise. The film, which puts Anthony Hopkins and Matthew Goode in the roles of Sigmund Freud and C.S. Lewis respectively, depicts a fictitious encounter between the two renowned figures as they engage in a theological debate. Adlakha criticizes the lack of depth in the conversation and the failure to fully develop themes related to Freud's controversial work and personal hang-ups. The dialogue between Freud and Lewis is driven solely by their religious differences, lacking substance and perspective. Adlakha also notes that the film's visual approach is dull and fails to create a dynamic relationship between the characters. Despite the talented performances of Hopkins and Goode, the film's dialogue is empty and lacks meaning. Overall, 'Freud's Last Session' is described as a passionless and disappointing film.
On the other hand, The Austin Chronicle offers a different perspective on 'Freud's Last Session'. The movie, directed by Matt Brown and starring Anthony Hopkins and Matthew Goode, is set in 1939 London during the start of World War II. The story revolves around a debate between Sigmund Freud and C.S. Lewis about life's big questions, including sex, mortality, and the existence of God. The film incorporates flashbacks and parallel narratives involving third characters, which dilutes the tension between the two main characters. The narrative structure and tone of the film are described as unsteady. Despite the historical backdrop, the movie feels inconsequential and lacks dramatic tension. 'Freud's Last Session' is currently showing in theaters in Austin.
Despite the mixed reviews, 'Freud's Last Session' is still set to open in limited theaters on December 22, 2023 in Los Angeles and New York.