SUM OF EXISTENCE

Cinemavixion Review

Jon Cohen's 2005 thriller, "Sum of Existence," delves into the harrowing aftermath of trauma and the complex, often ethically dubious, methods employed for recovery. The film centers on Liz, a young woman who becomes the victim of a brutal assault, only to have her memory of the event suppressed through hypnosis. However, her attacker is determined to ensure she never forgets him, setting in motion a tense psychological game. Brooke Anderson, Simone Kessell, and Josh Picker anchor the narrative with their performances, navigating the film's dark themes with intensity. The plot, as detailed by external data, explores the ripple effects of the assault not only on Liz but also on her family and the psychiatrist attempting to treat her. The film probes the nature of memory, the fallibility of therapeutic interventions, and the lengths to which individuals will go to exert control or exact revenge. While "Sum of Existence" may not boast widespread critical acclaim or major awards, it offers a compelling, albeit disturbing, look at the psychological toll of violence and the intricate dance between forgetting and remembering. It's a film that lingers, prompting reflection on the fragility of the mind and the enduring presence of trauma.