Why lots of people hate this movie.

Rating: 10/10 (29 June 2005)

This film has met loads of negative criticism for one reason: those doing the criticizing simply don't understand the purpose of the film. Most of the people I know that saw The Village went into the theater wanting or expecting a horror movie. I know, the way it was marketed contributed to this, but I have learned never to go into a Shyamalan film without an open mind. Everyone I know who succeeded in this also succeeded in understanding and loving The Village.
Shyamalan's minimalistic style also frustrates some people. Many people want to be told things flat out. Shyamalan lets you know everything you need to, but he is more subtle in how he goes about telling you. For example: you never hear in words that Lucius loves Ivy (at least not until the porch scene). Instead, you are given the knowledge when Lucius says, "Because he never touches you." I say, why can't more movies be made like this?
The Village is not a horror movie; it is a love story, told in a way completely unique to all others. One aspect of the story that makes it so appealing (to me, at least) is the fact that it is probably the most innocent love story I have ever seen. Lucius and Ivy are not corrupted in any way: they haven't been with anyone else (like many you see today), and they are completely untouched by sin. They are surrounded by evil -- both real and imagined -- yet they remain pure. Even the cinematography reflects this: when they kiss, you don't watch them making out and slobbering all over each other; instead, the camera easily floats away as their lips meet. I could go on and on concerning this subject.
For anyone who reads this that hates The Village with a passion, as I know many do, try watching it again with a different mindset. That goes for all of Shyamalan's films. Each one has a very definite theme that, when realized by the viewer, is very touching and satisfying, to say the least. This movie is just too good not to enjoy!
spartacus