Review of The Village (2004) by Ben B — 29 May 2011

"The Village" is a film that split audiences right down the middle upon release. It seemed everyone either loved or hated it, but it was well done enough that it always inspired a reaction. Because of Shyamalan's previous movies, most people went in expecting and actively looking for his patented twist ending.

This unfortunately hurt its overall reception, because in concentrating so much on how it all ends many seemed to forget about enjoying how the story gets there. Many films with gimmicky twists aren't especially well-made, but people enjoy them because they are in for a surprise.

That being said, clearly there were many that hated the now well known ending to The Village, but there was just as many that thought it worked. I unfortunately had the ending spoiled before I had a chance to see it, so my first viewing was interesting.

I knew where it would eventually lead me, but I was surprised how invested I got along the way. Even knowing the big surprise this film holds up well. The story is certainly interesting and all the various plot pieces and themes flow together nicely.

One thing I appreciated was how Shyamalan found creative ways to tease the audience without totally cheating. All the characters act consistent with what's going on at all times, never giving away too much but always acting in a way that makes sense even if you know what they are up to.

A LOT of movies with twist endings cheat along the way and things don't hold up a second time through. I also want to touch on the excellent score. I noticed many instances when it added to the suspense and atmosphere which really sucked me in.

Instead of just worrying about predicting the twist, I became invested in the characters and their various motivations. The themes of innocence and loss have been obviously touched upon in his other films and worked well here.

I would challenge some of you to give the movie another shot and enjoy it for the story. Don't just worry about being surprised, because there's more to offer here. There were several scenes that managed to take me by surprise even a second time through.

And I must point out how this is a great example of the capabilities Shaymalan has behind the camera. There are so many creative shots he achieved throughout. In particular, having one of the characters be blind gives him the opportunity to shoot scenes creatively so that the audience can only see and experience what the character is.

The entire section with the Ivy the blind girl in the woods by herself was masterfully done. The use of color was interesting as well. All of it adds up to a solid suspense thriller. Who would have thought this would be the last good film we would get out of M.

Night. While it's not as good as Unbreakable (in my opinion his best movie), I would place it right around Signs on the quality scale. 8/10.