A rare 'twist' movie that holds up to repeated viewings

Rating: 8/10 (15 March 2008)

Everyone knows that this movie has one of the best 'twist' endings in recent film history. Hopefully you haven't had it spoiled for you because seeing the movie for the first time wouldn't be the same if you knew the ending beforehand. That being said, if you're revisiting the movie then I think you'll find that it holds up surprisingly well, even though the element of surprise is gone.
The main reason for this is that you can now appreciate how the film was constructed in a way that concealed the twist in plain view. There are various clues throughout which take on a second meaning on repeated viewings. In my opinion there are maybe a couple of questionably 'cheap' tricks but it does all fit within the logic the 'twist'.
Another thing that keeps the movie entertaining is the atmosphere. This is unquestionably Shyamalan's best directorial effort, effectively building a sense of mystery and dread, all without resorting to the over-the-top gore typical of horror films. James Newton Howard's eerie score is also an essential ingredient in building atmosphere.
The acting is good all around but, for the most part, unexceptional. In my mind Toni Collette gave the best performance, one that was justly rewarded by an Oscar nomination. Haley Joel Osment also nabbed a nomination but I wasn't that impressed by his performance, though it was definitely above average for such a young actor.
If you haven't seen this film already try to catch it before the 'twist' has been revealed to you either by someone else or by a cultural reference. If you have seen it, watch it again to gain an appreciation of the film's construction.