Beyond Your Consciousness – The Beginning is a 2024 independent psychological thriller film directed by Rinoj Varghese that explores themes of psychosis, gaslighting, and the blurring lines between reality and perception. 

Description

The film centers on Amanda (played by Jen Ayer Drake), a psychiatrist who specializes in treating patients with trauma, particularly those who believe their mental illness stems from supernatural encounters. After recovering from the personal trauma of a miscarriage, she and her husband George move to a new house for a fresh start. Soon, however, Amanda begins to experience eerie and unexplained events, including mysterious presences and ghostly apparitions, leading her to believe the house is haunted by the spirit of a murdered woman. Driven by her convictions, she and her husband embark on a harrowing journey to find the woman’s missing daughter, a quest that challenges her sanity and the audience’s sense of reality. The plot features a slow-burn build-up of suspense and is replete with twists and turns, leaving viewers guessing until the very end about whether the events are supernatural or a product of Amanda’s mind. 

Critics and Reception

The film has received generally positive to moderate reviews, often praised for its ambitious storytelling and thought-provoking themes, especially considering its low budget. 

Positive aspects highlighted by critics:

• Intriguing Plot and Twists: Reviewers frequently praise the intricate plot and the surprising ending, which many found genuinely unpredictable. The constant shifts between supernatural horror and psychological thriller elements keep the audience engaged and questioning what is real.
• Strong Performance: Jen Ayer Drake’s performance as the protagonist Amanda is often described as compelling and captivating, effectively portraying her character’s emotional journey and gradual descent into potential madness.
• Atmosphere and Style: Critics appreciate the director’s use of sound, camerawork, and a modest budget to create a tense, claustrophobic, and unsettling atmosphere, reminiscent of 1970s psychological thrillers like Rosemary’s Baby and Shutter Island.
• Provocative Themes: The film’s exploration of the mind’s power, gaslighting, and the nature of reality has been noted as a strength, providing a “mind-fracking” and thought-provoking experience. 

Overall, the film is recommended for fans of psychological horror and thrillers who enjoy movies that challenge their perceptions and offer an open-to-interpretation narrative. It has also won an award at the Cannes World Film Festival for its director.