The Mesmerist_
Based on an Edgar Allan Poe story, this film tells the grimly comic tale of a bad-tempered old man (Howard Hesseman) who cheats death, only to go on tormenting the living. When a medical experiment leaves the grouch hovering between life and death (and able to describe the world beyond), things get tricky for his daughter (Jessica Capshaw) and her beau (Neil Patrick Harris, of "Doogie Howser, M.D." fame), who can't get their hands on his estate.
Director
Gil Cates Jr.
Starring
Neil Patrick Harris, Jessica Capshaw, Jason Carter
Updated Feb 16, 2026
WHERE TO WATCH
Apple TV
1 country
DROPTHE_ GOSSIP
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Year context
The Mesmerist was released 24 years ago in 2002.
The Mesmerist is a Horror film with a runtime of 1h 35m.
CAST (7)
CREW
STUDIOS (1)
Roxbury Films
DETAILS
Release
Status
Released
Runtime
95 min (1h 35m)
Language
English
Country
Rating
2.5/10 (2 votes)
Popularity
4
IMDB
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is The Mesmerist about?
Based on an Edgar Allan Poe story, this film tells the grimly comic tale of a bad-tempered old man (Howard Hesseman) who cheats death, only to go on tormenting the living. When a medical experiment leaves the grouch hovering between life and death (and able to describe the world beyond), things get tricky for his daughter (Jessica Capshaw) and her beau (Neil Patrick Harris, of "Doogie Howser, M.D." fame), who can't get their hands on his estate.
How long is The Mesmerist?
The Mesmerist has a runtime of 95 minutes (1h 35m).
Who directed The Mesmerist?
The Mesmerist was directed by Gil Cates Jr..
Who stars in The Mesmerist?
The cast of The Mesmerist includes Neil Patrick Harris, Jessica Capshaw, Jason Carter, Howard Hesseman, Jo Champa.
What is the rating of The Mesmerist?
The Mesmerist has a rating of 2.5 out of 10 based on 2 votes on TMDB.
GENRES (1)
Horror