The Review (Spoiler Free)
M. Night Shyamalan’s “Split” is a gripping psychological thriller that showcases the director’s return to form and James McAvoy‘s acting prowess. The film, released in 2017, delves into the complex world of Kevin Wendell Crumb, a man with 24 distinct personalities, each vying for control. McAvoy’s portrayal of Kevin’s multiple identities is nothing short of remarkable, as he seamlessly transitions between personas, ranging from the stern and obsessive Dennis to the innocent nine-year-old Hedwig.
“Split” is a testament to Shyamalan’s technical mastery, with a narrative that is both lean and taut, maintaining a constant forward motion that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film pays homage to Alfred Hitchcock, evident in its suspenseful direction and Shyamalan’s signature cameo. Unlike some of his previous works, “Split” forgoes the expected grand twist, instead opting for a more straightforward horror experience that is refreshing in its simplicity.
The abduction of three teenage girls serves as the central plot, with Anya Taylor-Joy’s character, Casey, emerging as a willful and observant survivor. The film explores themes of trauma and survival, with Kevin’s personalities representing different facets of his fractured psyche. The underlying childhood trauma that led to the creation of these alter egos is both disturbing and poignant, adding depth to the narrative.
Critics have praised “Split” for its suspenseful storytelling and McAvoy’s dynamic performance, which has been described as a dramatic tour de force. The film has been well-received by audiences and critics alike, earning a positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes and other review platforms.
Ending Explained (Spoiler Alert!!)
The final scene of the movie has generated significant buzz, not as a surprise twist, but as a setup for a forthcoming sequel. In this scene, Bruce Willis makes a cameo appearance.
Here’s how it unfolds: The film concludes with McAvoy’s character, who has transformed into his 24th personality known as the Beast, eluding capture by the authorities. The scene then shifts to a busy diner, where a woman watching a news report about McAvoy’s character comments that it reminds her of a past case involving “a funny guy in a wheelchair—what was his name?” The camera pans to reveal Bruce Willis, clad in a work shirt labeled “Dunn,” who looks up at the TV screen and says, “Mr. Glass.”
As fans may recall, Mr. Glass is Samuel L. Jackson’s supervillain role in M. Night Shyamalan’s film, Unbreakable. Clearly, Bruce Willis is reprising his role as David Dunn from Unbreakable, indicating that the movie Split exists within the same universe. This also hints at an upcoming film featuring David Dunn, Mr. Glass, McAvoy’s character, and possibly Casey. Time will tell.
In the Nutshell
“Split” is a compelling and unsettling exploration of the human mind, anchored by strong performances and Shyamalan’s skilled direction. It stands as a notable entry in the thriller genre and a film that is likely to be discussed and dissected for years to come. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or simply appreciate well-crafted cinema, “Split” is a movie that should not be missed. I give 5 out of 5 stars.
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Genre: Thriller
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