'Regression' Trailer: Satanic Panic Hits Emma Watson

Regression is the new film from The Others director Alejandro Amenabar, which means we can expect something haunting, atmospheric and beautifully shot — you get a definite sense of that in the new trailer for the film, which stars Emma Watson as a young woman who accuses her father of abuse…but that accusation may indicate something far more sinister.

The film takes place in 1990, when Satanic Panic gripped the nation and leagues of law enforcement officers were on a witch hunt for occult activity — scores of crimes were bafflingly connected to satanic rituals, including, most famously, the case of the West Memphis Three.

Regression appears to give that panic some credence (maybe) by insinuating the involvement of a large, nationwide network of occult practitioners:

Minnesota, 1990. Detective Bruce Kenner (Ethan Hawke) investigates the case of young Angela (Emma Watson), who accuses her father, John Gray (David Dencik), of an unspeakable crime. When John unexpectedly and without recollection admits guilt, renowned psychologist Dr. Raines (David Thewlis) is brought in to help him relive his memories and what they discover unmasks a horrifying nationwide mystery.

Let’s take a moment to delight in the idea of Remus Lupin (David Thewlis) from Harry Potter doing a little psychological investigation on Hermione Granger (Watson). I don’t think we’re at Hogwarts anymore, guys.

Regression hits theaters on August 28.