Reviews The CrappeningBy Jamie Hancock
Back in 2002, critics heralded M. Night Shyamalan as the “next Steven Spielberg.” In addition to garnering impressive box office sales, his first two big studio movies (“The Sixth Sense” and “Unbreakable”) had compelling storylines that ended with remarkable twists. Although not quite on the same level, “Signs” was highly entertaining. Since then, Shyamalan has produced a string of disappointments – absent of incredible twists and captivating dialogue, and chockfull of bland characters and bad acting performances. Fortunately, I think I’ve hit upon what has been missing from his last three films, including “The Happening.” So now you will know exactly what to look for, and whether or not his future films are worth the $9 or $10. Sure, his movies are more predictable and less suspenseful than before. And yes, Shyamalan seems more determined on creating eerie landscapes than cultivating plotlines. Okay, and I have to agree that the director has restricted character development in his past efforts. But, besides those three reasons, the missing element has been: cute lovable kid characters! Where would Shyamalan be without the quirky and pensive Haley Joel Osment? Or the nerdy comic relief of Rory Culkin? Or the alarmingly adorable Spencer Treat Clark? Beyond featuring these talented performers, Shyamalan created a touching father-son dynamic in his earlier films. This trend tells me that it’s time for the Oscar-nominated director to switch genres. Perhaps M. Night needs to get out of the mystery/thriller business and try his hand at feel-good family dramas. I guess I should tell you something more about the plot of “The Happening.” Listen, it’s not worth your time. You’ll just get upset with me. ...So basically the plants hate us and they make us want to kill ourselves. A bumbling idiot science teacher (Mark Wahlberg) and his ditzy girlfriend (Zooey Deschanel) somehow evade deadly airborne toxins by going to rural Pennsylvania. I told you it was ridiculous!
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June 27,
2008
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