Netflix’s Alias Grace is a visually stunning period drama, adapted from Margaret Atwood’s novel, which dives deep into the complex character of Grace Marks, a woman convicted of double murder. The series focuses on Grace’s mysterious past and the question of her innocence.

Unlike the faster-paced Handmaid’s Tale, which is another adaptation of Atwood’s work, Alias Grace moves at a more deliberate pace. Despite this, the series builds tension in its finale, particularly in a pivotal scene where Grace undergoes hypnosis, a moment that shapes the entire narrative.

The Hypnosis Sequence and the Emergence of Grace’s Alter-Ego

In the final episode, “Part 6,” Dr. Jerome (Zachary Levi) hypnotizes Grace to unlock the truth behind the murders she is accused of committing. However, the hypnosis reveals more than expected, as Grace adopts a new personality: that of her deceased best friend, Mary Whitney. This new persona brings with it distinct memories and motives, creating a chilling alter-ego that Grace has apparently been hiding. This dramatic twist in Grace’s character raises questions about her role in the murders and blurs the lines between guilt and innocence.

Sarah Gadon, who portrays Grace, underwent significant preparation to embody Grace’s alter-ego, Mary. Gadon worked closely with Rebecca Liddiard, who plays Mary Whitney, to replicate her voice for the hypnotic sequence. Gadon also consulted her cognitive behavioral therapist father and practiced hypnosis to ensure the scene would be authentic and unsettling. The final result is a haunting performance where Grace-As-Mary’s voice and demeanor are eerie and deeply unsettling, enhancing the psychological complexity of the character.

The Veiled Woman and Feminist Themes in Grace’s Story

A key moment in the hypnosis scene involves the imagery of the veiled woman, a symbol historically associated with patriarchy. Gadon explains that, in Alias Grace, this trope is subverted to present a feminist perspective. The veiled figure in this case represents the repressed, silenced woman, and in Grace’s story, it becomes a terrifying symbol of the hidden truths within her mind. This shift challenges traditional gender roles and reflects the theme of female repression in the series.

The use of hypnosis in Alias Grace serves as a tool for Grace to express deeply repressed emotions and trauma. During the 19th century, when the series was set, such vulnerabilities were often suppressed, especially in women. The Spiritualist movement, which believed in accessing deeper truths through supernatural means, is central to Grace’s experience. Gadon reflects on how hypnosis was a way for women to confront their anxieties and repressed feelings, while men saw it as an unsettling spectacle. The psychological aspects of Grace’s journey are integral to understanding her character.

In the finale, Grace-As-Mary makes several claims about her involvement in the murders, but the series leaves the truth ambiguous. Was Grace complicit in the murders, or was she manipulated by Mary? Gadon emphasizes that the series deliberately leaves this question unanswered, maintaining the ambiguity that defines the character’s memory. This unresolved tension invites viewers to reflect on larger societal issues, such as gender, power, and repression. Ultimately, Alias Grace isn’t just about solving the mystery of Grace’s innocence; it’s about confronting the societal structures that shape and limit her.