treatedforfiction

Treated for Fiction is a 2019 film written and directed by David Michael Hathaz. The movie follows a young man named Jack as he recounts his experiences within a psychiatric treatment facility. Jack's account is presented in a non-linear fashion, significantly influenced by his imagination. This narrative style allows the audience to discern between reality and fiction, challenging their perception of the story.

The film features Ryan Guzman in the lead role, playing both Jack in the present and in his imagined past. Hathaz explores mental health through Treated for Fiction, highlighting both the benefits and detriments of the mental health treatment system. Critics have noted that the film's non-linear structure heavily influences the viewers' interpretation of events, rendering the truth difficult to discern.

Reviews of the film have been mixed, with some critics praising its unique narrative approach and thought-provoking themes. Others have found the film challenging to follow, particularly in regards to the intended timeline. The limited budget has been mentioned as both a strength and a weakness by some reviewers. Treated for Fiction initially circulated on the festival circuit before wider release.

While opinions regarding the film's quality vary, it undeniably succeeds in raising questions about the nature of truth and the reliability of the narrator. The use of non-linear storytelling raises expectations in the audience, prompting some viewers to blur the line between reality and fiction. Despite its uncertain reception, Treated for Fiction plays on themes not frequently examined in mainstream media.