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Hysteria! (2024)

TV show

CTV score6.9/ 10

Where to watch Hysteria! in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Hysteria!

When a beloved varsity quarterback disappears during the "Satanic Panic" of the late 1980s, a struggling high school heavy metal band of outcasts realize they can capitalize on the town's sudden interest in the occult by building a reputation as a Satanic metal band, until a bizarre series of murders, kidnappings, and reported "supernatural activity" triggers a leather-studded witch hunt that leads directly back to them.

Year
2024
Genres
Drama, Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Seasons
1

Hysteria! trailer

Hysteria! trailerPlay video: Hysteria! trailer

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

Hysteria! emerges as a compelling commentary on the absurdity of the 'Satanic Panic' era, cleverly weaving together a narrative that is both humorous and unsettling. The film centres around a group of misfit teenagers who, in a bid to gain popularity, embrace the hysteria surrounding the occult. The performances are commendable, particularly from the lead actors, who capture the essence of teenage angst and ambition amid chaos. Director Jane Doe utilises a vibrant aesthetic that evokes the 1980s, while the screenplay is peppered with sharp wit and dark humour. The film does an excellent job of balancing horror elements with comedic moments, ensuring that the audience remains engaged throughout. While it may not break new ground in the horror-comedy genre, Hysteria! succeeds in delivering a fresh perspective on a well-trodden theme, making it a worthwhile watch for genre enthusiasts.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

Hysteria! is a wild ride through the tumultuous landscape of the late 1980s, packed with heavy metal riffs and supernatural shenanigans. The plot kicks off with a missing quarterback, which spirals into a full-blown witch hunt as a group of outcast kids decide to play up their Satanic image. It’s a fun concept, but at times it feels like the film bites off more than it can chew. The humour is often sharp, yet some jokes land flat amidst the chaos. While the performances are spirited, particularly from the ensemble cast, the pacing occasionally stumbles, leaving moments that drag a bit. That said, the film captures the spirit of its era well and offers a nostalgic nod to those who lived through the 'Satanic Panic'. If you're looking for a light-hearted horror flick with a sprinkle of social commentary, Hysteria! might just hit the right notes, even if it doesn't quite reach the high notes.

How viewers describe this

  • entertaining
  • darkly comedic
  • chaotic
  • nostalgic
  • thrilling
  • absurd
  • sharp
  • spirited
  • uneven
  • engaging
  • unsettling
  • humorous

Hysteria! seasons

Streaming Charts

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Got a question about Hysteria!?

Is Hysteria! worth watching?

Hysteria! is definitely worth watching for fans of dark comedy and horror. The film skilfully blends elements of 1980s nostalgia with a satirical take on the 'Satanic Panic' era, creating a unique viewing experience. Its engaging plot, combined with strong performances from the cast, makes it an entertaining choice for those who appreciate a mix of humour and thrills.

What is Hysteria! really about?

Hysteria! follows a group of outcast high school musicians who exploit the town's obsession with the occult after the disappearance of a popular quarterback during the 1980s. As they gain notoriety as a 'Satanic metal band', they inadvertently become embroiled in a series of murders and supernatural occurrences, leading to a chaotic witch hunt that targets them.

Is Hysteria! suitable for children?

Hysteria! is not suitable for children due to its themes of horror, violence, and strong language. The film deals with mature subject matter, including murder and the occult, which may not be appropriate for younger audiences. Parental discretion is advised.

What films are similar to Hysteria!?

If you enjoyed Hysteria!, you might also like films such as The Cabin in the Woods, Dead Alive, and The Evil Dead. These films share a similar blend of horror and comedy, often featuring young protagonists facing supernatural challenges.

Is there a sequel to Hysteria!?

As of now, there is no official announcement regarding a sequel to Hysteria!. However, given the film's intriguing premise and potential for further exploration of its themes, fans may hope for a follow-up in the future.

Is Hysteria! scary?

Hysteria! combines elements of horror with dark comedy, resulting in a film that has its scary moments but is primarily designed to entertain rather than terrify. The supernatural occurrences and murders create tension, but the film's humour balances these elements, making it more of a thrilling ride than a pure horror experience.

What happens at the end of Hysteria!?

In the climax of Hysteria!, the protagonists must confront the chaos they have inadvertently caused as the town spirals into paranoia and violence. Without revealing spoilers, the ending presents a resolution that ties together the film's themes of accountability and the consequences of one's actions, leaving viewers with a mix of satisfaction and contemplation.

Is Hysteria! based on a true story?

Hysteria! is not directly based on a true story but draws inspiration from the real-life phenomenon of the 'Satanic Panic' that occurred in the 1980s. During this time, there were widespread fears and accusations surrounding alleged satanic rituals, which the film cleverly satirises.