‘The Sixth Sense’ Director Delivers With ‘Split’

Anh Trinh, Staff Writer

Director M. Night Shyamalan’s newest horror film “Split” released last weekend, stars James McAvoy and Anya Taylor-Joy. The director, known best as the writer and director of “The Sixth Sense,” makes a comeback with this thriller after a slew of disappointing films.

Don’t miss the first few minutes or you will be confused. The movie starts when Casey Cooke (Anya Taylor-Joy) attends a party of a friend she barely knows. Unable to find a ride home afterward, she catches a ride with the friend’s dad.

In a shocking turn of events, the car is stolen by Kevin (James Taylor-Joy) and the girls in the car are abducted. Casey soon wakes up to find herself and the other girls locked in a basement room.

Slowly the movie introduces Kevin and his 23, or is it 25, identities. It’s obvious he has Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). He flawlessly switches from a motherly female to a 9-year old personality. Some characters he portrays are more prominent in the movie than others.

The plot continues to alternate between intense moments of terror to comedic relief. More on DID is further explained. The unique ending offers an opportunity for a sequel. Considering the movie revolves around two people, the plot doesn’t lose your attention.

Although it is very predictable, the movie has a knack for excellent timing. Its portrayal of the identities of Kevin by McAvoy is incredible, as he dives into the role of each character. The atmosphere of the film is very eerie and unnerving at times and fit for a thriller film. This is rated PG-13; don’t bring your siblings.

The movie is perfect if you are looking for a something that isn’t too scary. It balances the tension and lighter scenes enough for more timid viewers.