A summer film to make you think-->May contain spoilers!

Rating: Null/10 (31 July 2004)

This is not your typical summer thriller. You have to go into this film with an open mind, because it may shake your willing suspension of disbelief at the end. I think those viewers who did not like the film are those who felt they were lead astray by the trailers. They may also include those who aren't really fans of M. Night Shyamalan's previous works. The more I see of him, the more I feel that he's filling the role of a modern day Hitchcock. In his latest installment, viewers should be reminded that the lack of emotional message or moral would be uncharacteristic of his style. Going into The Village and thinking there will not be a greater lesson learned is the equivalent of sticking your head in the sand that is summer film fluff. That said, I believe the storyline of this film is of high quality. However, if you're looking to be spoonfed a scary time chock o' block full of bloody limbs and people hiding in shadows, this may not be the show for you.
Having said that, I think that Shyamalan made some excellent casting choices here. He gave the supporting roles to the usual headliners, and in doing so gave some of the younger stars a chance to shine. The sadly underestimated Joaquin Phoenix has an amazing gift for subtlety that is not often seen in such a young actor. Bryce Dallas Howard (Ivy) is a great find, and I think she will be a refreshing and welcome addition to the young 20s female actress group we see now (who, though very pretty and all, are sadly lacking in character interpretation skills).
Finally, kudos to costume designer Ann Roth! Can anyone say Oscar nomination? Her color concepts (and yes, there's more happening there than the obvious: red is for baddies) and attention to detail are superb.
All in all, I would recommend this movie to adults (and possibly more mature teens) who are prepared to think during a summer film. And yes, at times, to be a little scared.