A Character Study in Human Nature

Rating: 9/10 (27 August 2010)

I am going to risk getting flamed and give this movie an EXCELLENT review. Why? Because what everyone hated about this film is exactly what I loved about it. We get so used to seeing larger than life heroes save the day and never break a sweat. We are used to seeing blood, guts, and entrails splattering our screens. People will forgive a weak plot (as many horror movies have) if you give them a big, bloody payoff. This film is not so much about "the happening" although that part is terrifying and exciting to watch; after all, how many of us are afraid of losing who we are or going insane? This film is about human nature. It is about how humans behave when everything normal is taken away. Yes, there are some awkward acting parts, but I think that this is done on purpose. I prefer to give Mr. Shyamalan the benefit of the doubt because I have said stupid stuff at the most inappropriate times. The fact is that humans are not perfect; humans do not always say the right thing, and humans can be selfish even when other people's lives are at stake. However, people usually do the right thing and come together. It's an excellent character study in human nature.