Watch Insight

Insight is a thought-provoking psychological thriller directed by Ken Zheng and Livi Zheng. The movie centers around a homeless veteran, Jian (played by Ken Zheng), who is suffering from severe PTSD after his time serving in the military. He is plagued by flashbacks and hallucinations, making it challenging to distinguish between reality and his traumatic memories.

Jian is approached by Men in Black, who offer him a place in a covert government program. Jian is initially skeptical but ultimately agrees to participate in the program after being promised that it will help him overcome his PTSD. The program involves inserting microchips into Jian's brain, which grants him extraordinary abilities, such as reading minds, super strength, and remote viewing.

Using his newfound abilities, Jian quickly rises up the ranks of the government agency and becomes a valuable asset in their efforts to track down and neutralize a terrorist plot. At the same time, Jian struggles to maintain his sense of self as his memories begin to blur, and he becomes increasingly reliant on the microchips.

The film's plot is intriguing as it delves into the complex relationship between power and control. Insight questions the ethical implications of giving someone extraordinary abilities, who has already suffered significant trauma, and whether the benefits outweigh the risks.

The acting in Insight is commendable, especially Ken Zheng, who portrays Jian with remarkable depth and vulnerability. He brings a raw honesty to his performance, which strikes a chord with the audience, making Jian a relatable and sympathetic character. Other prominent cast members include Tony Todd, Madeline Zima, and Keith David, who all hold their own and lend their talents to make the film even more engaging.

Visually, Insight is impressive, with stunning cinematography that captures the atmosphere of the film's various scenes perfectly. The action sequences are intense, and the visual effects are top-notch, which is quite impressive given the movie's modest budget. The director's ability to create and maintain a tense atmosphere lends to the film's overall ability to captivate the viewer and keep them engaged.

One of the movie's most significant strengths is the unpredictability of the plot. The film shifts between gritty realism and mind-bending sci-fi, which makes for a compelling and thought-provoking watch. The audience is kept guessing as the narrative progresses, with the character's motivations and allegiances blurred.

In conclusion, Insight is an engaging and original psychological thriller that shines a light on the consequences of power and control. The movie's success is in no small part due to the director's talent, a commendable cast, stunning visual effects, and an unpredictable plot. Insight is one of those rare movies that will make you think long after the credits have rolled. Highly recommended.

Insight is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 49 minutes.