Cold hard story telling. Rich and highly rewarding film.

Rating: 9/10 (10 August 2004)

Shyamalan has produced another fabulously rewarding film. Beautiful and epic, this movie blends fairy tale and idealistic themes with that of our modern filthy amoral humanity. Critical social commentary runs deep in the film, showing the stylings given by the director in his previous works such as Unbreakable and Signs. I thank Shyamalan for continuing to tell beautiful stories.
Bryce Dallas Howard is a stand out performer in one her first major films showing great emotion and ability. A gritty perspective shows the audience the beauty in all things innocent and the importance of sacrifice. Shyamalan fans will be drawn to it.