The Consultant (2022) User Reviews

A solid indie thriller

[tjsporty · 7/10 · 6 June 2023]

A classic 'one room' psychological thriller with a great cast, compelling music and intriguing plot made by a passionate team of filmmakers.

Writer and director Ignacio Maiso reinforces his strong stylistic approach and sensibilities in this third feature film from Tractorni Productions, this time bringing us inside a therapist's office while locking the doors to leave us with a deteriorating consultant (John-Christian Bateman).

Some familiar faces from past films return to the cast in The Consultant to turn in some compelling performances, all the while being underscored by composer Ben Cook's brilliantly unsettling music.

An obvious twist

[mrbwiz422 · 4/10 · 28 May 2023]

Good cinematography. Acting was decent if not a little over acted.

What really stopped this movie from being good was the writing. This movie wasn't even close to great, in fact it was bad.

Do not believe the 9/10s and 10/10s, they are quite obviously friends and family and other interested parties.

To make it a good movie they just had to not make it so obvious from the start what was going on. When you have this psychologist with patients, saying nothing and looking like a deer caught in the headlights the entire time... Yeah.

Maybe I'm being unfair to the writers, and there were more lines but they were cut out in editing? Maybe the actor improved not saying them and the director went for it?

Huge mistake though.

A twisting psychological thriller.

[IanGabrielG · 10/10 · 5 June 2023]

Ignacio Maiso's 'The Consultant' is a brooding, twisting psychological thriller that wraps with quite a punch to the chest. It's definitely one of those movies that are worth watching a second time. The performances by all of the actors involved was amazing, but especially that of John Christian Bateman as the psychiatrist. He really carries the movie. One of the great things about independent cinema like this is that the filmmakers can take more liberties with material and style. The film had a very effective and avant-garde cinematography that added a new dimension to the story and the musical score was wonderful. All in all a very intriguing, moody piece that will keep you hooked till the very end.

Mind Games Begin Where Sanity Ends.

[adrianofmalaga · 10/10 · 29 May 2023]

Ignacio Maiso's "The Consultant" is a riveting exploration into the depths of the human psyche, featuring a psychiatrist (John Christian Bateman) whose disturbing secret unfolds with the arrival of three new patients. Infused with suspense and mystery, the narrative spirals into a complex blend of Freudian psychoanalytic explorations, reminiscent of classics like 'Persona' and 'Repulsion'. With a haunting score by Ben Cook and atmospheric cinematography by Milos Moore, the film navigates complex conceptual terms while maintaining an intellectually challenging and captivating narrative. A masterclass in psychological thrillers, "The Consultant" is a labyrinthine odyssey into the human mind, encapsulating cinema at its most cerebrally intoxicating.

A fantastic brooding physiological drama

[AndreasSopolski · 10/10 · 6 May 2023]

A fantastic brooding physiological thriller drama feature film. The film has fantastic camera work with beautiful shot composition the colour grade was one of favourite things the teals and cool tones really added to the overall 'mood' of the film.

The surreal ending without giving too much away or a spoiler was unexpected and a unique twist to end on. If you like slow burning films with a sinister undertone you cant quite put your finger on this one is for you.

In the words of the great 'Harry Styles'

Its like a real like MUUVIE!

Great work from all involved if you like supported indie features check 'The Consultant' out.

An unexpected twist

[info-355-886623 · 9/10 · 25 May 2023]

Another one of Ignacio Maiso's films that I quite enjoyed. I like films that keep you intrigued, especially if there is a great unexpected twist, which this one has. You think you may have got it but I can't imagine anyone would guess what happens at the end, even if you think you do, you won't. It's not often a psychiatrist is seen reliving their past fears with the arrival of their clients. An interesting perspective working with three specific clients. Ignacio has a very intriguing style like all of his films, they keep you guessing, they are slow, but gripping. If you like a slower burner then I would highly recommend this film full of drama, thriller and psychological content.

So Good, I Didn't Want it to End

[andrewnorman321 · 10/10 · 23 May 2023]

Everybody needs to see this gem of a psychological thriller.

The art direction is constantly mesmerising yet doesn't distract from the superb and innovative cinematography or the pace of direction alongside such original writing.

Ben Cook's subtly spooky score serves the suspense throughout and the cast are bewitching, particularly Rebecca Calienda as Sharon: such a tantalising performance. She must surely be the Queen of the reaction shots?

And just how did Jean-Christian Bateman sustain that performance for the entire movie? That face, those eyes!

I was sorry when it ended but the gorgeous jazz piano over the credits was a great joy.

Gripping Thriller

[pierluigirossi · 10/10 · 1 August 2023]

"The Consultant" is a gripping thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Directed by Ignacio Maiso the film delivers a rollercoaster of suspense and intrigue that will leave viewers guessing until the very end. The Consultant" is skillfully directed. The pacing is well-managed, allowing the audience to become fully immersed in the intricate plot twists and turns. The cinematography adds to the film's atmosphere, creating a moody and intense ambiance that complements the suspenseful narrative.

John-Christian Bateman delivers a remarkable performance as the titular consultant. His portrayal of David is layered, displaying both intelligence and vulnerability. He captures the essence of a man torn between his duty and his conscience, adding depth to the character's internal conflict.

Edging thriller

[sarikamandalia · 8/10 · 1 December 2023]

This was a great thriller that left me on edge till the end!

The premise is a vulnerable psychiatrist who relives his trauma through his 3 patients which concludes with a fantastic and surprising ending. Also the underlying tension in the film was brilliant which is helped by the unsettling score. My favourite part of the score was the twisted Jazz Piano theme that comes in and out which instantly disturbs the viewer.

It was beautifully shot through out which is a credit to the director Ignacio Maisio and his team. Overall a great performance from the actors and I would highly recommend it to anyone!

A nice indie watch

[emile-dwb · 8/10 · 12 February 2024]

The Consultant is a well-filmed indie thriller movie set in one location, presenting an intriguing story. I initially thought it was a crime thriller, but it surprisingly takes a cool and unexpected psychological turn.

The acting in the film is commendable, with some characters delivering heartfelt moments that resonated with me. The director's stylistic choices in filming are satisfying and beautiful, effectively enhancing the overall mood in certain scenes.

While I felt that certain elements in the script could have been revised, it didn't diminish the overall impact of the film.

It's always a pleasure to see familiar faces from the director's previous work.