More mood and suspense from Mr Shiyamalan

Rating: 9/10 (23 January 2005)

I have enjoyed all major releases from this director starting with the 'Sixth Sense' and this film is no exception. It is beautifully shot, the cinematography and camera-work are superb. The pace is excellent with just the hints of unusual at the beginning of the movie, tension and suspense rising steadily throughout, building up to the climax and resolution. The cast is perfectly matched to the roles - William Hurt, Joaquin Phoenix and Bryce Dallas Howard are perfect for their characters and deliver great performances. Bryce Dallas Howard is mesmerizing at times. The dialog is tight with very little out of place and so is the plot. Everything in the beginning has a meaning later on in the film. This is a film that deals first and foremost with people and human condition and it is cinematographically rich and beautiful experience. For this reason I preferred it much more to 'Sixth Sense' for instance, which follows a more conventional format. I have heard mixed reviews of this movie and a lot of complaints were with the twist at the end. Maybe you'll like the twist maybe not but it is a compelling watch just getting there and it is well worth the time.