Another Great Multi-Layered Film by M. Night Shyamalan *SLIGHT SPOILER*

Rating: 8/10 (17 November 2000)

I was lucky enough to be invited to the Philadelphia premiere of Unbreakable last night. What I got to see was another well crafted, multi-layered film by one of the most prominent filmmakers of our time that will keep you talking for days.
On the surface, it was a film about a man who possibly may be "Unbreakable," a thought provoking exploration of the trials of a man looking to see what is special within him and how he fits into the life that he has made for himself. On the other hand, the film could be the equivalent of a first edition comic book (comic books figure prominently throughout the movie), relating the battle of good and evil to the ordinary people among us... or is Mr. Shyamalan really saying that these people (superheros and arch-enemies) really exist among us, only not dressed in neon spandex leather tights, but in the ordinary clothes of an otherwise unremarkable person?
Though the story line was probably not as strong as "The Sixth Sense," it was a tremendously compelling film with some of the most amazing film and sound editing that I have yet seen in a film. From a cinema buff's standpoint, look for long, continuous shots with camera movements that keep you deep in the perspective of the omniscient observer, as well as judicious use of the altered realities from the perspective of the hero. Add to that, the excellent sound effects and sound editing (just -listen- to the sounds of a fall by one of the characters), and you've got a great film that holds you to your seat to the ending credit.
By the way, Night was gracious enough to speak with me briefly at the post-party, and he said that there was even more symbolism in this film than there was in "The Sixth Sense." After hearing that and thinking about it for a bit, I definitely think that one viewing of this movie will not be enough for me, and I'm looking forward to seeing it again to look for all the details I missed the first time around.