Read Mixed User Reviews for Split

6

WalterKovacsDec 26, 2017

An original plot and fair cinematography. Really good script and great pacing. Casting could have been better. The film could have been far better with just a few minor changes.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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6

MahmusSep 30, 2020

Split succeeds almost only because of James McAvoy's amazing performance, but fails in term of writing and directing, which is plagued by M. Night Shyamalan's usual overwriting and distractingly inhuman feel.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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6

Titanic21Mar 9, 2017

So here we go for my first ever review on "metacritic.com". In the beginning I was pretty much amazed of this movie. How it started of, the story, absolutely genius. When seeing the trailer, I suspected that this is the movie for me to watch.So here we go for my first ever review on "metacritic.com". In the beginning I was pretty much amazed of this movie. How it started of, the story, absolutely genius. When seeing the trailer, I suspected that this is the movie for me to watch. But... Why do I give it only a "six" then? It´s what remained to be watched. Until that one point in the story line (if you watched the movie you´d know what I am talking about) it seemed like they wanted this to become more and more of an action-movie. A few spots pointed out on the story to develop that way indeed, but I didn´t think the people behind "Split" would realize it the way they did. In order to not spoil you I will only say that the ending does not go well with the movie. "Split" is not bad overall, but it´s also not as good as it should be. An alternated ending, if the scenes they made aren´t even more that just the "ending" would have been worth beeing rated 8 or even 9. I´ll still give them a "six" for the idea and because of "Split" having it´s moments and despite the massive deterioration towards the end "Split" is a somewhat well staged and the psychological way pretty scary thriller and it´d be unfair to give it less than 51% of the points, as Split is pretty enjoyable over all, despite the really disappointing "genretwist" I´d claim they tried to craft.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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5

The3AcademySinsNov 15, 2017

Split is a flawed movie with a few shining moments. Most of the problems with Split come from the pacing, writing (particularly in the second and third acts), being overindulgent with tense moments, which as a result sucks the tension out ofSplit is a flawed movie with a few shining moments. Most of the problems with Split come from the pacing, writing (particularly in the second and third acts), being overindulgent with tense moments, which as a result sucks the tension out of the action as opposed to heightening it, and some weak performances by the supporting cast. Where Split shines is James MacAvoy's performance, as well as the first act of the film. This film has an incredibly strong opening and set up, and MacAvoy absolutely commands the screen throughout the film, but as a story, Split completely putters out after 45 minutes.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

stellarnomadJan 26, 2017

Much ado about nothing. Overreaction is all the rage these days--everything must be the "greatest thing ever" or the "worst thing ever" with little to no room for the middle ground. Shame, because this film falls squarely within thatMuch ado about nothing. Overreaction is all the rage these days--everything must be the "greatest thing ever" or the "worst thing ever" with little to no room for the middle ground. Shame, because this film falls squarely within that dwindling category for me.

When I first started to hear reviews about this film, words like "shaking" and "greatest ending ever" were thrown around. After watching the film and noticing my interest ebb away as we drew ever closer to the titular "Beast" reveal, the final revelatory connection to an earlier property felt so thin it was almost transparent--the phrase uttered to usher it in, clanging so hard my ears are still ringing.

This film is good but not great, take away the (not really a) twist, and you're left with some solid performances, a handful of locations, and a number of flashbacks - and counselling sessions - that persist in breaking the crafted tension. The acting ranges from solid to James McAvoy; an actor that is obviously relishing the chance to teeter between a small cast of personalities vying for control in his head. The dance number being a particular highlight.

When a film engages and connects, you're willing to overlook the faults. When it doesn't, your mind starts to pick away at the cracks, attempting to figure out why it doesn't work for you. For me, the film overstayed its welcome, dragging through one too many interruptions with a Counsellor touting laughable opinions about damaged individuals superiority. In hindsight, it was an attempt to establish the rules of this universe in which humans can break the physical and mental boundaries constraining the rest of us. It failed to convince, leaving the impression that her colleagues, rather than entertaining her convictions, would be distancing themselves from her in fear of professional ridicule. The script, considering its subject matter, presented as uneven; the visual language surpassing the written language throughout, perhaps limited by its PG classification when dealing with issues like molestation and cannibalism. The story would have benefited from a more focused and consistent tone, stripping away flashbacks; removing or reducing our time with the counsellor; and giving the abductees more time in the spotlight, so I actually cared about them. Anya Taylor-Joy will be one to watch, particularly after a convincing turn in The witch.

Everyone loves a comeback story. I can feel those in the wings wanting desperately to announce that the Shyamalan of old is back. While I'm not interested in adding to a tired cliche, it does appear that playing within the low budget field has re-invigorated his style, and that certainly offers more promise than where he was.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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6

Rebecca31Jan 20, 2017

Starring James McAvoy as the terrifying Kevin with “23 distinct personalities” now I don’t know where M. Night Shyamalan learned to count but 23 personalities turns out to be about 9 personalities rotated on a loop. Don’t get me wrong, IStarring James McAvoy as the terrifying Kevin with “23 distinct personalities” now I don’t know where M. Night Shyamalan learned to count but 23 personalities turns out to be about 9 personalities rotated on a loop. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind that it’s only 9 sure that’s a lot for one person but don’t advertise 23 with a possible 24th, that’s false advertising and I don’t appreciate it. So one of McAvoy’s personalities abducts three girls and they’re determined to escape with the hope of using some of the “many” personalities to help them. Oh don’t worry if you find yourself confused because you’ll get a nice little explanation every 20 minutes as to exactly what is happening.
Let’s face the hard truth that Shyamalan is not a good film maker but rather one who distracts us with shocking twists and good actors (for the most part). And wow is McAvoy spectacular in this, the 6/10 is for his performance alone as he carries the entire movie. Recommended because despite its flaws I was entertained.… Expand

1 of 6 users found this helpful15

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6

DirigiblePulpFeb 24, 2017

McAvoy is just as good as advertised and if The Visit (because of its found footage premise) or his last two films left any doubt, Shymalan is still a world-class director.

The plot here doesn't always work. It has directorial and scene toMcAvoy is just as good as advertised and if The Visit (because of its found footage premise) or his last two films left any doubt, Shymalan is still a world-class director.

The plot here doesn't always work. It has directorial and scene to scene momentum but it doesn't go anywhere new or deliver in any completely satisfying way (those manipulative flashbacks aren't great).

I'm not sure how to feel about the "secret" ending. I guess it works fine but these two movies inhabit different worlds to me. A great "beast" doesn't really make sense in the Unbreakable universe. I'm not sure blending these two films is going to work.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

TVJerryJan 26, 2017

Three teenage girls (of course) are kidnapped by a man who is possessed by 23 personalities (James McAvoy). This is a women in distress thriller with a heavy layer of psychological conversation (featuring a wonderful Betty Buckley as hisThree teenage girls (of course) are kidnapped by a man who is possessed by 23 personalities (James McAvoy). This is a women in distress thriller with a heavy layer of psychological conversation (featuring a wonderful Betty Buckley as his doc). The film promises horrible consequences and has a mild amount of stress in the process. The ominous feeling of dread and mild touches of suspense are typical tropes from writer/director M. Night Shyamalan. Still, the final scenes don't pay off in tension or shockers. McAvoy does demonstrate his exceptional talent, as he brilliantly inhabits a variety of peculiar characters. The "surprise" at the end isn't really a twist in the traditional Shyamalan style, but a silly in-joke.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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6

Jack97Feb 9, 2017

Every single thing this film has going for it is all James McAvoy. His performance(s) are excellent and completely makes the movie. It's a shame the stuff around him aren't as great, the supporting performances are kinda generic (particularlyEvery single thing this film has going for it is all James McAvoy. His performance(s) are excellent and completely makes the movie. It's a shame the stuff around him aren't as great, the supporting performances are kinda generic (particularly the girls he kidnaps) and minus the last 20 minutes it's not always that interesting. It's still a decent thriller and a not so bad way to kick off the year's movies.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

WaelFeb 6, 2017

'Split' has some elements that really shine: the concept, the plotline, the directing, and the amazing flexible performance (or should we say performances?) of James McAvoy. However, at some point towards the final half an hour or so, it'Split' has some elements that really shine: the concept, the plotline, the directing, and the amazing flexible performance (or should we say performances?) of James McAvoy. However, at some point towards the final half an hour or so, it tends to become a little dull and boring, and the ending sequence is just incoherent and displeasing. All in all, an enjoyable film, except for the ending that cost it a lot. How sad for a good film to have such an ending.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

ScienceAdvisorJan 22, 2019

A great performance by McAvoy cannot lift this material to what it should have been. The story amounts simply to mind over matter, which would make this Shyamalanic world full of people with powers, not just a few. Wards are full of peopleA great performance by McAvoy cannot lift this material to what it should have been. The story amounts simply to mind over matter, which would make this Shyamalanic world full of people with powers, not just a few. Wards are full of people with delusions of power based fantasies, and in this Shattered/Split world they would be correct. I found the psychologist's logic to be usual Hollywood technobabble and her pretense of helping was shattered when she refuted the possibility that a particular personality could exist. There are a few plot holes as well, but they were just a convience to keep the story moving, and are easily overlooked. Some called this a superhero movie. It is not.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

royphishoohJan 28, 2017

Reasonably entertaining with a very good performance from James McAvoy, Split is spoiled by Shyamalan's usual self-important, pretentious style. When will Hollywood start using script-writers again instead of letting the director do it?

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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5

FuturedirectorMar 6, 2017

Split has enough thriller, cool interpretations (especially from James McAvoy) and a surprisingly unforgettable character to make it worth a look, despite its undeniably choppy plot.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

sandbornFeb 7, 2017

A solid thriller with a good ending, I enjoyed most of 'Split'. As always, James McAvoy gives an excellent performance in a movie with a lot of suspense. It may seem a bit long at almost 2 hours, but the pacing and the rhythm are well done; IA solid thriller with a good ending, I enjoyed most of 'Split'. As always, James McAvoy gives an excellent performance in a movie with a lot of suspense. It may seem a bit long at almost 2 hours, but the pacing and the rhythm are well done; I don't think the movie ever drags. My big issue with 'Split' is that it tests your suspension of disbelief way too much. People respond to situations in a way real people wouldn't respond or that defy common sense. It's one of the things I don't like about Shyamalan movies. He twists logic to get a desired outcome, but it's not always satisfying.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

KaptenVideoJan 23, 2017

Mysterious man with many distinct personalities (James McAvoy) kidnaps three girls and holds them without much explanations. What is going on and do they have a chance to get free again?

Even once-biggest fans of M. Night Shyamalan such asMysterious man with many distinct personalities (James McAvoy) kidnaps three girls and holds them without much explanations. What is going on and do they have a chance to get free again?

Even once-biggest fans of M. Night Shyamalan such as myself have to admit that, as a filmmaker, he is not nearly as good as he used to be. The breakout hit "The Sixth Sense" is still my favorite but his zenith came with 2002's "Signs". After that, the good going just, er, stopped. The same can be said, by the way, about Mel Gibson's acting career, who starred in "Signs".

So what happened? Shyamalan just suddenly lost his steam. Every later project I've seen has been artistically limp, pompous and/or bit weird in a bad way. True, I have skipped "Wayward Pines" and "The Visit", so maybe they are the exceptions.

M. has always known a thing or three about creating dark gripping atmosphere and characters we can root for but I think he is seldom good at moving the story along and making it compact. Thus, many bits or scenes in his movies are strong and/or fresh but the whole thing gets kind of tiring as it progresses. This is also exactly how I'd sum up "Split". Pure Shyamalan, with all his usual strengths and weaknesses. It has lot of good stuff going on. I like everything here separately... but the whole thing just does not come together.

"Split", too, goes to three different directions at once. None of them is really effective and satisfying – although could be if given more room and care – which is the main problem bogging the result down.

By far the best part is to watch James McAvoy playfully juggle different personalities, managing to move effortlessly from horrifying to funny to pathetic to kind of cool. It has to be the most interesting acting work anybody has ever had a chance of doing in Shyamalan movies which are known for one-note lead characters (not necessarily a bad thing but still). Although i don't understand the point of having 24 personas if we only get to see 8 of them. Were the others put on hold for the possible sequels?

So. "Split" is better than expected – although almost anything would be after Shyamalan's double death punch of early 2010's ("The Last Airbender", "After Earth"). And it has the second-best ending we have ever had in a Shymalan move.

Is it enough to give Shy another chance? Yes. But I'd still approach his future project with caution. The man has a long way to go back to the top. In the world full of me-too horror and thriller movies, usually relying on cheap scares (such as sudden sound effects), he could be one of the true auteurs. But he can't do it alone. He needs someone who will help to put all his ideas in tight compact packages.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

NrthGeorgiaMikeMay 25, 2017

If I had rated this movie immediately after watching it, I would have given it a 3 based on what I felt was SUCH a disappointment of an ending. However, after considering my enjoyment of an interesting plot line for most of the movie, andIf I had rated this movie immediately after watching it, I would have given it a 3 based on what I felt was SUCH a disappointment of an ending. However, after considering my enjoyment of an interesting plot line for most of the movie, and VERY good acting by the majority of the characters, I was entertained overall. Yes... McAvoy WAS exceptional, and this film probably would have failed miserably were he not cast in the lead role. I also thought that Betty Buckley's psychologist role was very well acted... she did a great job with it. This is the first I've seen of Anya Taylor-Joy and she, too, did a great job with her character.

I'm not really a fan of director MNS, so my expectations were not high. The plot line was intriguing and interesting most of the movie, but fell apart at the end as it went from reasonably "intellectual" to more like Sci-Fi. Finally... for anyone that has not seen another of MNS's movies, the final scene will NOT have any payoff value at all. IF it was a setup for a sequel, I won't be going to see it.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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6

luke100Jan 9, 2018

It had an on-the-nose concept that felt fun for the most of the movie, then got insanely stupid at the end. Enjoyable, but not much else.

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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5

TyranianOct 1, 2019

Probably the best of the trilogy but still quite clumsy in parts. McAvoy is good.