Split (2016) Movie Review

 When you sit down to watch an M. Night Shyamalan movie, you're not just watching a story unfold – you're on a mission to uncover its hidden twist. This anticipation has been part of the experience ever since his breakout hit, "The Sixth Sense," hit screens almost twenty years ago. We're always asking ourselves: 

• What surprise does he have in store for us this time? What clues should we be on the lookout for? 
• Will it be as mind-blowing as before?

But let's be honest, recent films like "The Village" and "Lady in the Water," along with duds like "The Last Airbender" and "After Earth," left many feeling underwhelmed. It seemed like Shyamalan's magic touch was fading. That's why "Split," his latest offering, is such a breath of fresh air. A straightforward horror flick, "Split" reminds us why we fell in love with Shyamalan's work in the first place. He's back to showcasing his technical prowess, paying homage to Hitchcock with his masterful camerawork – and of course, sneaking in his trademark cameo. And the best part? There's no convoluted twist to unravel this time.

"Split" wastes no time in grabbing your attention. It's leaner and more tightly wound than Shyamalan's recent outings, keeping you hooked from start to finish. Even when it dips into the past to give context, it never loses momentum.

It's like Shyamalan's found his groove again, even amidst the grit and grime of the story. And a big part of that is thanks to James McAvoy's incredible performance as Kevin, a man with twenty-four distinct personalities. From the meticulous Dennis to the playful Hedwig to the sophisticated Patricia, McAvoy brings each character to life with flair. Sure, there's some over-the-top acting going on, but it's all part of the fun. McAvoy's ability to switch between personalities seamlessly is nothing short of mesmerizing.

In "Split," Shyamalan proves he's still got it – delivering a thrilling ride that'll leave you guessing until the very end.

McAvoy's performance as Kevin, with his multiple personalities, is both darkly humorous and surprisingly poignant. Despite his menacing demeanor, the childhood trauma that led him to create these alter egos still haunts him deeply. As the film progresses, moments of vulnerability and fragility surface, adding a new layer of unsettling depth.

The abduction scene, expertly crafted by Shyamalan, sets the stage for the intense drama to come. Three high school girls, including the sympathetic Casey, find themselves kidnapped by Kevin. As the story unfolds, Casey emerges as a smart and resourceful leader, engaging with Kevin in a way no one else dares.

Anya Taylor-Joy's portrayal of Casey adds a chilling intensity to the film, supported by suspenseful flashbacks that hint at her survival instincts. However, her co-stars receive less development, serving mainly as victims.

Through sessions with his psychologist, Dr. Fletcher, we gain insight into Kevin's fractured mind. Dr. Fletcher's belief in the potential of dissociative identity disorder adds a layer of compassion to the story, amidst its brutality.

The film's unsettling atmosphere is enhanced by a haunting score and eerie sound design. However, towards the end, the plot falters with some contrived moments and questionable directions, leaving a slightly uncomfortable feeling.

Nevertheless, "Split" showcases Shyamalan's return to form, offering a gripping and technically impressive experience. Don't miss the final moments for a surprise twist.