“Beneath its saucy surface Hysteria is a rather sweet romantic comedy.” Daily Express
The Victorian doctor who invented the vibrator is the unlikely hero of this not entirely historically accurate costume romcom. Dr Mortimer Granville (Hugh Dancy), struggling to make his way in London’s medical establishment, finds himself landed with the apparently dull task of treating female hysteria. But the recommended form of treatment – therapeutic ‘pelvic massage’ – produces startling results, including the amorous attentions of some of his patients. Eventually the hapless doctor’s dedication to his job leads him to contract repetitive strain injury, causing him to invent a labour-saving device that will change women’s lives forever. With Maggie Gyllenhall, Jonathon Pryce and Rupert Everett on hand to add lustre to a slight if entertaining piece, Hysteria is saucy but never crude, and offers the occasional tingle of genuine pleasure!
