Content Warning: This article contains references to kidnapping and murder.
Telekinesis, also called psychokinesis, is a psychic ability that has been portrayed on the big screen multiple times. The power to move objects with the mind became a popular subject in many films from the late 1970s to the early ‘90s, when the topic was often debated in both the scientific community and on morning talk shows.
Modern portrayals of telekinesis are often used to progress plot points, rather than having the entire film revolve around the psychic ability itself (as seen in movies like Star Wars and hit series like Stranger Things). Of course, there are recent exceptions that highlight telekinesis in unique ways, taking inspiration from older films to add a fresh spin to the concept.
Phenomenon (1996)
Set in a small town in Northern California, the 1996 film revolves around the story of a mechanic named George Malley (played by John Travolta). After seeing flashing lights outside of a bar one night, George gains telekinetic powers and high levels of intelligence. He uses these newfound skills to do good, even rescuing someone from certain death at one point.
Phenomenon is often criticized for its surprising plot twist that somewhat undermines the protagonist’s telekinetic abilities. However, it is this same twist that makes the movie so poignant in the end as it explores what matters most to George in his last moments on earth.
The Fury (1978)
Based on the 1976 novel of the same name, The Fury tells the story of ex-CIA agent Peter Sandza (played by Kirk Douglas) who must work with Gillian Bellaver (played by Amy Irving) after his son is abducted because of his telekinetic powers. The criminals run experiments to figure out how to use these telekinetic powers for their own goals.
This film deserves much more press than it got and is worth rewatching even today. It’s one of those forgotten ‘70s horror films that truly captured the spirit of the genre at the time. It was (arguably) the best work Brian De Palma has directed too as he created a masterpiece that was entirely his own with The Fury.
Psychokinesis (2018)
After the massive success of Train to Busan in 2016, director Yeon Sang-ho went on to helm the first-ever South Korean superhero film, Psychokinesis in 2018. It features a bank security guard who unexpectedly gains telekinetic powers after drinking from a mountain spring. He uses these powers for good, saving people and defending a community against an exploitative company.
The film doesn’t take itself too seriously, as in between its well-choreographed action scenes, there are humorous conversations that often make fun of the movie’s premise. Behind its comedic approach, viewers will find a deeper commentary on real social issues that are present in the country and around the world.
Scanners (1981)
Directed by David Cronenberg, the 1981 sci-fi horror film Scanners portrays a tense struggle between people with psychic abilities and ConSec, a private military company that wants to use these powers for itself. The main 'scanners' who fight each other in the movie are Michael Ironside and Stephen Lack, played by Darryl Revok and Cameron Vale respectively.
Despite receiving mixed reviews after its initial release, Scanners has been reevaluated throughout the years and is considered today as one of the best horror movies in the Criterion Collection. It’s now a cult classic that any film buff will recognize thanks to its unforgettable, sometimes literally explosive, body horror scenes.
The Power (1968)
Based on the 1956 novel of the same name, The Power was director Byron Haskin’s last film. It revolves around the story of a group of scientists who must find out who among them has telepathic and telekinetic powers.
This whodunnit is a unique approach to the subject that is often only portrayed in sci-fi and horror films. While this still does have horror elements throughout the movie, its focus is mostly on the protagonist’s efforts to untangle an elaborate coverup by one of the scientists.
Lucy (2014)
Known for films like Léon: The Professional and The Fifth Element, director Luc Besson took the best elements of his previous work to produce the sci-fi action drama, Lucy. It centers around Lucy Miller (played by Scarlett Johansson), who gains superhuman abilities after a drug accidentally enters her bloodstream.
While the film received polarizing reviews from both critics and fans, it does provide a thrilling story that its intended audience will undoubtedly enjoy. The eccentricities of the film may seem laughable or distracting to others, but will likely appeal to some who appreciate its unique take on the genre. Telekinesis here is used to drive a point about the physical and mental potential of humans, often questioning the origins of existence itself.
The Initiation Of Sarah (1978)
The Initiation of Sarah is a hidden gem among the several made-for-TV horror flicks from the ‘70s. Directed by Robert Day, the movie tells the story of the telekinetic Sarah Goodwin (played by Kay Lenz) and her sister Patty (played by Morgan Brittany), who must navigate the terrifying process of joining a sorority.
While the film is often cheesy, it’s still enjoyable for viewers who want classic catfights and sorority drama, interspersed with psychic powers and brutal murder. The strange combination ends up working really well, and those who watch this for the first time will likely be pleasantly surprised by the film’s exciting plot twists and dramatic ending.
Thelma (2017)
This Norwegian thriller, helmed by Joachim Trier, follows the story of Thelma (played by Eili Harboe), who is a young woman that starts developing feelings for Anja (played by Kaya Wilkins). Thelma discovers that these feelings trigger telekinetic powers, which soon become too intense to control.
Considered one of the best romantic horror movies, Thelma explores themes of acceptance, love, and religion. The supernatural thriller brilliantly uses telekinesis as a metaphor for the protagonist’s internal struggles, while still portraying the psychic power’s impact on the real world.
Matilda (1996)
Directed, produced, and narrated by Danny DeVito, Matilda is a ‘90s classic that fans likely watched when they were kids. Based on Roald Dahl’s 1998 novel, the movie follows the story of Matilda Wormwood (played by Mara Wilson) who unexpectedly develops telekinetic powers. She uses these to deal with her neglectful parents and tyrannical principal, hilariously putting adults in embarrassing and awkward situations.
While some fans may remember some scary moments in Matilda, it’s mostly a lighthearted and comedic film meant for kids. The black-and-white portrayal of the villainous adults in the movie is typical for this genre, as some viewers can likely relate to the protagonist’s experiences in school and with her family. Of course, the scenes where Matilda uses her telekinetic powers to defeat the bullies are entertaining, too.
Chronicle (2012)
This 2012 mock documentary revolves around the experience of three high school friends who accidentally discover a hidden object that gives them telekinetic powers. Directed by Josh Trank, Chronicle explores how the trio deals with the darker side of these powers.
At first glance, the movie sounds like a deceptively simple retelling of the dangers of superpowers. However, the found footage-style movie becomes surprisingly moving as viewers are drawn in by the protagonists’ individual stories. The drama surrounding these teenager’s lives eventually becomes the focus of the film, with telekinesis only used as a tool to express the characters’ struggles and inner turmoil.