Mental

"Mental" (original title "Вне себя") is a 2021 Russian drama series starring Evgeniy Stychkin. The show delves into the complexities of the human psyche through the eyes of a psychiatrist who confronts unconventional and often disturbing cases that challenge his professional and personal beliefs. Exploring themes of mental health, societal pressures, and the blurred lines between sanity and madness, the series combines psychological thriller elements with deep character studies. Stychkin’s compelling performance anchors the narrative, inviting viewers to examine the fragility of the mind and the resilience needed to navigate life’s darkest moments.

"Mental" received a moderate reception from critics and audiences alike, with praise largely directed towards Evgeniy Stychkin's intense and nuanced portrayal of the lead psychiatrist. On IMDb, the series holds a rating of 7.2/10 based on viewer reviews, noting its compelling narrative and emotional depth. Some reviewers highlighted the series’ thoughtful approach to mental health topics, applauding its willingness to explore taboo subjects sensitively. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a critic score available for the show, reflecting its limited international exposure. However, user reviews on platforms like KinoPoisk praise the show's psychological depth and storytelling but mention pacing issues in later episodes. Critics from Russian media outlets such as "Kommersant" recognized the ambitious narrative and strong performances but pointed out that some plotlines felt overly dramatized, detracting from the realism. Overall, "Mental" is seen as a brave and emotionally resonant series that may appeal most to viewers interested in psychological dramas and character-driven stories.