PSYCHE Logline:
Adrift in limbo, a young woman and computer embark on a quest to uncover the meaning of life.
PSYCHE Synopsis:
Psyche is a cerebral, character-driven exploration of the complicated relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence. At its core lies a timeless question: What is the meaning of life?
Mara (Sarah Ritter) wakes alone in a dreamlike, post-apocalyptic limbo – an existential void that may be a near-death experience or a simulation. Her only companion is a vintage computer, guiding her through a series of choices between good and evil in a distorted version of the game of life. Together, they navigate a surreal landscape of cryptic clues and symbolic puzzles, each one peeling back layers of Mara’s fractured identity.
Psyche becomes a haunting meditation on human connection and the search for meaning in an era increasingly shaped by technology. Rather than framing artificial intelligence as the end of humanity, the film presents it as a mirror—reflecting who we truly are, and what we’re ultimately searching for.
Press:
Critical Acclaim for Psyche:
- Gavin Logan, The Fright Club NI: “Deserves multiple viewings… bears David Lynch’s fingerprints.”
- Michael Flett, Geek Chocolate: “Shot in Death Valley, with photonegative effects rendering the landscape alien… unfolds like a dream where past and future endlessly intertwine.”
- Joel Harley, Horror DNA: “Sarah Ritter delivers a performance that’s at once steely and vulnerable.”
- Kim Newman: “A spiritual quest and a struggle-through-the-levels computer game.”
- Anastasia Byrd, The Farsighted: “Stephon Stewart’s charming sci-fi gem delivers full length enjoyment.”
- Kat Hughes, The Hollywood News: “At just over seventy minutes long, Psyche presents a small taste … but whilst short in length, it is vast in scale. Rather than explain itself fully, Psyche favours a more avant garde and experimental approach to storytelling. Those that are a fan of delving into humankind at its most base and spiritual level will be richly rewarded.”
- Anton Bitel: “An allegorical desert where a lost soul faces a sink-or-swim decision.”
- Darren Gaskell / Thomas Alexander, LoveHorror: “With its fusion of metaphysical horror, existential philosophy, and sci‑fi surrealism, Psyche promises to challenge audience perceptions of reality in a way few films dare.”
Psyche premiered in Scotland as the Opening Night selection at FrightFest Glasgow, followed by U.S. screenings at Panic Fest and Popcorn Frights, and an international showing at the Macabro Horror Film Festival in Mexico City.
Recalling the haunting lyricism of Stalker and the meditative introspection of Solaris; Psyche uses genre as a prism to explore the ineffable nature of consciousness. Like Tarkovsky’s work, it trades plot for atmosphere inviting the audience into an immersive, existential trance.
Popcorn Frights 2025 – Reel News Daily
The film’s visuals are mesmerizing… The sets resemble the remnants of tornado-ravaged areas, arid badlands, and a post-apocalyptic shoreline, all seamlessly intertwined. The script is incredibly complex. The entire filmmaking team should be proud. PSYCHE is an experimental therapy session that will undoubtedly strike a nerve for viewers. It is unique and yet entirely timeless. PSYCHE is a must-see.
