A good deal of symbolic reference to the genre of the hero.

Rating: Null/10 (1 March 2001)

I was never one to overreact or gush with praise about a film. But then neither have I gone a week later to see one again. I did this with The Sixth Sense and I will see Unbreakable again as soon as I can manage it.
Why? What is it about Shyamalan's ability and this film in particular?
Sure, sure, tone, camera angles, Bruce Willis. . . are all things that I appreciate. Shyamalan seems to have the uncanny power to pull me in with them.
But the idea of more real-than-extraordinary people being the origin of many superhero myths really struck a chord with me. The presentation of the internal conflict, the realization by the hero of his ability, and an underwhelming but overwhelming scene where the hero almost loses it - were all handled extremely well. (I think many missed the significance of this incredibly poignant pool scene).
The story line, a slow pace, and very decent and believable acting by Robin Wright Penn, Samuel L. Jackson and even Spencer Treat Clark, made it all the more comfortable to watch. It kept me guessing. I don't know who to credit more, the director Shyamalan or the writer Shyamalan.
I believe it was a guy's movie for guys who could recognize the symbolic references to what we grew up with all those many hours in front of the tube.
But in this tale we see a more real portrayal of strength and humility, secrecy and love, and the acceptance of a role in life by a man destined not to be normal.