My quick rating - 6.1/10. Ishana Shyamalan, daughter of the renowned M. Night Shyamalan, makes a commendable directorial debut with this flick. Her direction is confident, and she demonstrates a keen eye for suspense and pacing. The story, while rooted in familiar survival horror tropes, feels fresh due to its unique setting and the dynamic between the captives. The acting is solid across the board. Dakota Fanning delivers a compelling performance as the resilient and resourceful Mina. Georgina Campbell, Oliver Finnegan, and Olwen Fouere each bring depth to their characters, portraying the fear, tension, and camaraderie that develops among the captives. Their interactions feel genuine, adding emotional weight to their plight The forest setting is nothing short of stunning and was one of the first things I took notice of in this movie. Cinematographer Eli Arenson captures the beauty and foreboding nature of the Irish wilderness with breathtaking shots that make the forest feel both enchanting and menacing. The dense greenery and the play of light and shadow create an immersive atmosphere that draws the audience into Mina's world. As expected from a film with the Shyamalan name attached, this one features a twist. However, it falls short of the mark, largely due to the high expectations set by M. Night Shyamalan's legacy. The twist feels somewhat predictable and lacks the impact needed to elevate the film from good to great. While it didn't ruin the overall experience, it left me with a sense of unfulfilled potential. This flick is a promising start for Ishana Shyamalan's career as a screenwriter and director. The film excels in its visual presentation and character performances, making it an engaging watch despite the predictable twist. The timid approach to horror makes it suitable for family viewing, although die-hard horror fans might find it lacking in intensity. Overall, it's an original and enjoyable film that sets the stage for what could be a bright future for daughter Ishana in the film industry. And if you think there is any extra meaning to the whole "everyone is watching" environment, I doubt that was a social mistake.
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