Review of Glass (2019) by Chris R — 17 Jan 2019

Much like "Unbreakable", I think that "Glass" will be seen much more favorably by critics down the line. I thoroughly enjoyed the subverting of expectations, and the reinforcement of mythology built by "Unbreakable". Although the choices made by the M. Knight might be decisive to audiences and critics, it is made with a clear vision and purpose. The acting is spot on, with an amazing performance by McAvoy in particular. Willis' and Jackson's are more subtle and arguably subdued but serve the narrative in a satisfying way.

*plot spoilers".

It is apparent early on that the psychologist has alterior motives, but doesn't tip it's hand on revealing them until the third act. I enjoyed the intrigue of the late reveal, but I can see why there is criticism of that as being a twist needing further exposition. The self espoused motivation of the organization dispatching 'supers' as seeking balance and not overtly evil reflects the classic narrative of comic book villains. The attempt at convincing the 'supers' that their abilities are delusions of grandeur, rather than outright killing them if possible displays a sense of morality, albeit twisted. The role in Mr. Glass' creation of The Beast and The Overseer muddies the water of Good Vs Evil, as much as the organization's attempt to keep balance between them. The death's of Glass, The Beast, and especially The Overseer have been widely panned as unsatisfying, but I must disagree. The grounding of superheroes to mortality via weaknesses or Achilles Heels contrasts the invincibility of modern comic book movie protagonists was brilliant. The success of Mr. Glass in spreading the knowledge of superheroes, despite his own death was an incredible conclusion. It truly was an origin story despite ending the trilogy.