(IP, Seattle 2024, 345 pages)
M. Night Shyamalan’s journey as an Indian-born American filmmaker is a captivating tale of contrasts and resilience. Catapulting to fame with his iconic psychological thriller The Sixth Sense (1999), Shyamalan has navigated a career marked by both critical acclaim and fluctuating reception. His remarkable ability to reinvent his craft shines through in recent successes like The Visit (2015), Split (2016), and Glass (2019).
Adrian Gmelch’s insightful exploration focuses on the pivotal period from The Happening (2008) to Knock at the Cabin (2023). This deep dive into Shyamalan’s filmography goes beyond mere analysis of his works; it’s a narrative of perseverance and unwavering self-belief in the face of adversity. Gmelch also uncovers the subtle layers in Shyamalan’s films, drawing parallels with David Lynch, exploring socio-political themes, and dissecting the recurrent motifs of trauma and past influences.