Hysteria (1997 film)

Hysteria is a 1997 Canadian drama film directed by Renée April. The film stars Isabelle Cyr as Maggie, a young woman struggling with mental illness and the societal stigma surrounding it in Montreal during the late 1950s.

The narrative focuses on Maggie's experiences within a psychiatric institution, showcasing the often-harsh treatment and limited understanding of mental health prevalent at the time. The film explores themes of female repression, the medicalization of mental illness, and the struggle for individual autonomy within a restrictive environment. Maggie's journey includes encounters with other patients and the varying approaches of the medical staff, highlighting the ethical and practical challenges of mental healthcare in that era. The film portrays the impact of societal expectations and the limitations placed on women's roles, contributing to Maggie's psychological distress.