It’s difficult to approach A24’s latest documentary, Look Into My Eyes, without carrying some preconceived notions. Directed by Lana Wilson, the film delves into the world of New York City psychics, exploring their stories, their practices, and their connections with clients seeking to communicate with the afterlife. As someone who doesn’t subscribe to beliefs in astrology, seances, or psychic phenomena, I went in with skepticism that ultimately shaped my viewing experience—and not for the better.
Wilson has crafted a visually elegant and intimate documentary, offering a glimpse into the lives of these psychics and their clientele. The movie seeks to explore not just the practice of psychic readings but also the emotional connections forged through them. For the psychics, their work appears therapeutic, a way to process their own struggles and offer solace to others. Similarly, their clients find a sense of healing and closure in these sessions, which makes the premise inherently human and emotionally intriguing.
Yet, for all its craft, Look Into My Eyes falters in engaging viewers who don’t already buy into its central conceit. The film never fully addresses the skepticism that surrounds psychic practices, nor does it make a compelling argument for their legitimacy. The psychic readings themselves, which make up a significant portion of the documentary, often feel like thinly veiled guesswork: broad statements fishing for a connection (“I see the color blue… does that resonate?”). These moments feel more opportunistic than genuine, undermining the emotional weight the movie is clearly striving for.
This disconnect is where the documentary struggles the most. If you can’t get past the fundamental question of whether these practices are real or sincere, it’s hard to invest in the stories being told. While Look Into My Eyes doesn’t need to convert nonbelievers, it also doesn’t do much to engage or challenge them. Without that bridge, the film feels narrow in scope, offering little beyond a surface-level exploration of its subjects.
Ultimately, Look Into My Eyes is beautifully made but frustratingly hollow. For those already inclined to believe in the power of psychics, it may offer validation and insight. But for skeptics—or anyone hoping for a deeper examination of the profession’s complexities—it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression. As much as I admire A24’s continued willingness to take creative risks with unique stories, this one didn’t resonate with me.
Score: 4/10
Look Into My Eyes (2024)
- Director: Lana Wilson
- Genre: Documentary
- Runtime: 108 minutes
- Rated: R
- Release Date: September 6, 2024
More Reviews for A24 Documentaries
Cinephile Corner has reviewed the following documentaries from A24:
- This Place Rules (2023)
- Look Into My Eyes (2024)