Split is a 2017 psychological horror thriller movie directed by M. Night Shyamalan that takes viewers on a rollercoaster of suspense and dread. Oh boy, if you think this is another Shyamalan flick with a twist, you'd be spot on! This movie review delves deep into the multi-layered narrative and the jaw-dropping performance by James McAvoy.
Straight off the bat, the plot grabs you and squeezes your curiosity—hard. It's not every day you see a film where the main character, played brilliantly by James McAvoy, harbors 23 distinct personalities. When three girls, including Casey (an understated yet potent Anya Taylor-Joy), are kidnapped by Kevin's—let's call it—syncopated symphony of personas, you know you're not in Kansas anymore, Toto. This movie isn't just about a kidnapping; it's about survival, identity, and the frightening emergence of a potentially apocalyptic 24th personality. The stakes keep climbing higher, kind of like your heart rate during the entire 117-minute runtime.
What truly elevates Split into a must-watch film is the impeccable acting. Seriously, James McAvoy deserves all the awards for skillfully navigating his cornucopia of personalities—from a prissy 9-year-old boy to a manipulative germaphobe. One moment you're feeling sympathy, and the next, sheer terror. Cue Anya Taylor-Joy with an amazing portrayal of unflinching resolve. The cinematography, complemented by swift transitions and unsettling angles, adds a layer of discomfort that’s addictive in a masochistic kinda way. Shyamalan’s direction is less gimmicky here, thank heavens, and he delivers a focused narrative with just enough twists to keep you thinking long after the credits roll. The screenplay manages to juggle profound themes while keeping us entertained—kinda reminds you of Shyamalan's The Sixth Sense days, huh?
If you're into horror-thriller cinema, Split stands tall against notable films like Silence of the Lambs and Se7en. In terms of tension and psychological depth, it batters more recent entries like The Babadook or Hereditary—but there, it sometimes becomes its own Achilles' heel. Occasionally, the movie tries too hard to be clever with psychological jargon and loses sight of its core thriller drumbeat. Still, if plot twists and mind games are your popcorn—butter of choice, this film outwits competitors by strapping you to your seat with a mix of terror and intrigue.
In conclusion, if mind-bending narratives and versatile performances are your jam, then boy, is Split a treat for you! It's a modern cinematic masterpiece—though not without its stumbles—delivering a movie breakdown that Haunts (with a capital H) long after you leave the theater. Mark this as a top contender if you're curating a list of best horror movies. This film critique comes with a call to action: Go watch it! Thank me later when your brain finally untangles itself.