Atmospheric, brilliant

Rating: 10/10 (2 September 2001)

This is a great, chilling film. I won't mention anything about the plot, because the less you know the better. There are SOME similarities to "Sixth Sense," but to compare the two films or judge this against the other is not fair. "Sixth Sense" was a classic, but "The Others" stands by itself as a great work. Alejandro Amenábar is an enviously talented guy. Besides the brilliant script and direction, he wrote a score that darn well should be at least nominated come oscar time.
Also, you may hear about how "slow" this movie is. I completely disagree. First of all, it's not an action movie. But, if it developed any faster than it does, it would be silly. I can also say that I felt tense at least 90% of the time, all the way up to the finale. In fact at 114 minutes, I almost wanted a bit more, ALMOST. The great direction, close-ups, acting, low-lighting, and creepy cinematography allow you to feel the fear as the characters do. There's not an ounce of gore, and none is needed. Definitely among the best 3 or 4 films of the year thus far!