Well crafted period psychological drama

Rating: 9/10 (5 January 2008)

Like most people I thought 'Sixth Sense' was brilliant and went along to see 'Signs' partly on the strength of it. Was I disappointed - apart from the well documented plot shortcomings the film seemed to be shot as a 50's budget flick with none of the period charm. I left the cinema thinking 'what was the point of that?' Similarly I saw 'Unbreakable' on TV and found it to be very ordinary.
'The Village' had it's premiere on BBC2 this evening. The synopsis in the Radio Times interested me but I was half expecting to be disappointed. I was actually pleasantly surprised.
A group of people disaffected with city life set up an Amish-like village in a remote spot. To prevent the younger villagers straying, they invent a legend of monsters in the surrounding woods. Legend has it that, years ago, a truce was agreed whereby the villagers didn't stray into the woods or the monsters into the village. When one of their number is seriously injured, it is decided to break the truce and venture through the woods to the nearest town in order to get medical supplies.
So, there aren't actually any monsters, but the film is shot from the perspective of villagers who think that they do exist, thus creating several very atmospheric and scary scenes.
Some people have criticised the integrity of the plot but I think it holds together and could just about be believable. You could read between the lines and draw parallels with our leaders warnings about the 'axis of evil'.
For me, this film is everything that 'Signs' wasn't - everything comes together to form a very memorable experience - cinematography, script, lighting, soundtrack, sets, acting and direction are all first class. I'm glad to say that I've been able to revise my personal opinion that MNS was a one-hit wonder.