This is the worst of Night's movies

Rating: 5/10 (13 June 2008)

Even the Lady in the Water was more interesting and imaginative; though the plot was ludicrous, at least it had a purposeful plot. And fun characters, nice acting, and juicy details. All these are missing from The Happening.
The Happening's story is so transparent that the movie is more of a straight-on horror flick wannabe.
You know things are getting desperate for the filmmaker when actual gory violence is shown throughout the movie (hence the R rating) instead of Night's previous subtle touches, innuendos, and unseen horror.
In fact, the script is so linear and empty that you could go away for half and hour, come back, and not miss a thing. Really! So, for all those who loved Night's smart and interesting stories, you will be very disappointed. The ENTIRE premise of the movie is revealed very early on and you just keep hoping and hoping that there would be something more. (There isn't.)
The Happening also has the worst cop-out of an explanation in the plot's resolution. It is so bad, that you would think that Night simply could not tie it up nicely (well, there is only a single thread), or he really could not be bothered to. A sign of huge disrespect to the audience.
When the credits roll, there will self-loathing on the part of the audience.
My advice - spend your movie money on some nice beer.