Robert Rodriguez Interview: Hypnotic Is Hitchcock on Steroids

Having tackled westerns, epic sci-fi, and children’s films, among other genres, filmmaker Robert Rodriguez returns with Hypnotic, a mystery thriller he’s calling “Hitchcock on steroids.” While preparing for the film’s theatrical release on May 12, Rodriguez spoke with Collider’s Steve Weintraub about bringing his vision, 20 years in the making, to audiences despite the numerous setbacks. Hypnotic stars Ben Affleck and Alice Braga in a thriller the co-writer and director sprinkled with elements of science fiction and noir. While Detective Danny Rourke (Affleck) is attempting to cope with the trauma of his missing daughter, a mysterious man (William Fichtner) involved in a bank heist leads Rourke to believe this “hypnotic” has something to do with his daughter’s case. When he enlists the help of psychic, Diana Cruz (Braga), Rourke’s reality is upended entirely. Based in Rodriguez’s hometown of Austin, Texas, Hypnotic was given a SXSW premiere that received a successful reception. Like his feat