There are many misconceptions about trance and almost all of these originated from the 1931 psychological thriller, `Svengali´ . Even today it is responsible for the way hypnosis is portrayed by the media and very few people have a view of hypnosis that has not been tainted by it. In the film, John Barrymore plays a slimy heartless music instructor that uses the guise of a headache cure to claim dominance over an innocent performer. His piercing eyes and evil presence overcome the young singer, Trilby, and she becomes increasingly dependent upon him. The film shows a very dark and eerie image of control and submission.

The image of hypnosis introduced in Svengali has had devastating influence that is still with us today, more than 70 years later. As a future hypnotist, it is important that you should understand the truth about hypnosis as well as be aware of the misconceptions that your subjects will bring with them. Some stage hypnosis relies heavily on this hype, dominance and control, and creates a very negative image of hypnosis that is sadly so far from the truth. However, not all stage hypnosis maintains these techniques; many practitioners are very respectable and helpful about increasing awareness of genuine hypnosis, while providing harmless family entertainment.