At the root of being human is a recognition that we are finite, and thus vulnerable. This recognition doesn’t go away when we “grow up,” it just gets subverted and worked out differently.
This is why I love M. Night Shyamalan’s films.
The article is on Metaphilm, a great film discussion website.
I loved that article! It put articulate words to why I love M. Night’s movies. I get so frustrated with people who walk away from his films and say things like “that wasn’t scary at all” or “Yeah, he’s a one hit wonder alright.” Aargh! They obviously don’t recognize the symbolism, themes, and questions present in all of his movies. Each time I watch one of his films, I look forward to the discussions that will follow.
I especially like this part of the article “What about living up to a heroic life of risk and adventure? Why do we fear who we really are? Is living a life that is truly alive—a life that risks being who we really are—so bad in the end? Do we keep the secure “safe†job and continue walking in numbness?
Why is it that the unknown is so often seen as a 50/50 chance at death rather than an opportunity to surprise the world with hope?”
Really great questions that I think we need to start asking ourselves right now…no more waiting, no more plodding along through life.
I love all Shyamalan’s movies and couldn’t be more happy that each is different in its own unique way while staying true to central themes and symbolism that mark them as his creations. Hope he continues to make more thought provoking movies.
