The worst part of this for me was that the ending only feels satisfying if you truly believed that the four horsemen were lying, which I rarely did. And because of that, the non-twist of exactly what they said would happen happening is a wet-blanket on a movie I kept thinking would have that twist at the end that made it all worth watching, but it never did. The twist was there was no twist. I didn't enjoy that. This movie tells you exactly what will happen from the start and that's that, so as long as you trust what they say, the film has zero impact whatsoever. The only reason this gets a 6 from me is the writing in the first 2/3 of the movie. The last third was pretty abysmal.
814 Reviews
This movie needed more twists and turns, which is a strange problem for a M. Night Shyamalan movie to have
kevin_robbins31 January 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Knock at the Cabin (2023) is a new M. Night Shyamalan picture my wife and I caught at an A24 Advance Screening last night. The storyline follows two men and their daughter on vacation at a cabin in the woods. They are visited and captured by four individuals who come out of the woods with an ultimatum...one of the three must die at the hands of the other two or the world will end. As time runs down the family sees the death and destruction the visitors promised. Will the family let everyone die, will they save the world or is it all an elaborate game being played by four psychopaths?
As previously referenced, this picture is directed by M. Night Shyamalan (Signs) and stars Dave Bautista (Guardians of the Galaxy), Rupert Grint (Harry Potter), Ben Aldridge (Our Girl), Nikki Amuka-Bird (Jupiter Ascending), Jonathan Groff (The Matrix: Resurrection) and Abby Quinn (After the Wedding).
The storyline and characters in this picture had a lot of potential; but unfortunately, every situation is straightforward and predictable, all the way to the final scene. It's too bad because the cinematography and camera angles are very good and Dave Bautista delivers an outstanding performance. His character was easily my favorite. However, the characters backstories needed to be more developed, more like The Stand, before they all met at the cabin. I didn't really care what happened to those characters (the decisions were too easy to make for the family). The kill scenes themselves needed more gore and intensity. They definitely could have been better executed to highlight the situation the parents were in. The conclusion is straightforward and you know what's going to happen and how.
Unfortunately, this movie needed more twists and turns, which is a strange problem for a M. Night Shyamalan movie to have. I would score this a 6/10 and recommend seeing it once.
As previously referenced, this picture is directed by M. Night Shyamalan (Signs) and stars Dave Bautista (Guardians of the Galaxy), Rupert Grint (Harry Potter), Ben Aldridge (Our Girl), Nikki Amuka-Bird (Jupiter Ascending), Jonathan Groff (The Matrix: Resurrection) and Abby Quinn (After the Wedding).
The storyline and characters in this picture had a lot of potential; but unfortunately, every situation is straightforward and predictable, all the way to the final scene. It's too bad because the cinematography and camera angles are very good and Dave Bautista delivers an outstanding performance. His character was easily my favorite. However, the characters backstories needed to be more developed, more like The Stand, before they all met at the cabin. I didn't really care what happened to those characters (the decisions were too easy to make for the family). The kill scenes themselves needed more gore and intensity. They definitely could have been better executed to highlight the situation the parents were in. The conclusion is straightforward and you know what's going to happen and how.
Unfortunately, this movie needed more twists and turns, which is a strange problem for a M. Night Shyamalan movie to have. I would score this a 6/10 and recommend seeing it once.
Kinda boring
TheNamelessCzar18 February 2023
I don't know why I keep on falling for it. I keep on watching movies by M Night Shyamalan, and continue to hope to walk away with the excitement and awe I felt when I watched movies like The Sixth Sense, Signs, and The Visit. Instead, I keep on walking away shaking my head, thinking about the lost potential and opportunity. He continues to have very interesting ideas with very poor execution. The concept of this movie is excellent. The directorial choices, the storyline, the decisions made by characters were to be honest with you kind of blah. I didn't care enough about any of the characters to really care what happened to them. For a director that's known for his plot twists, this movie sure could've used one.
M. Night Shyamalan
Her-Excellency13 February 2023
For some reason, despite a few bombs, I've always rooted for M. Night Shyamalan. I don't know ... he just seems like a good guy and someone who I would like to have as a neighbor maybe.
In addition to being a seemingly likeable person, he made one or two really great films (at least one, for sure) and for some reason that just adds to his likeability. The problem with this, is that because of his seemingly genuine affability and because of the one or two good films he has made, I always feel as if he has it in him to create something exceptional, and time and time and again I think that the 'next one' will BE the one ... only to find that it isn't. So is the case with his latest offering, Knock at the Cabin. With The Cabin At the End of the World (which was the source material for Knock at the Cabin), he even started off with more than half of the recipe for something amazing.
The fact that it falls SOOOO short of being so, is truly a shame, and makes me wonder if he will really ever reach the heights of another 'The Sixth Sense'.
In order to avoid a Spoiler Tag I will not go into detail, but there was ZERO FILMED backstory to any of the important characters, and the filming of the backstories (and getting to know at least a little about each of them) was NECESSARY / paramount for this film to work. Having each character just speak about themselves for what amounted to a handful of minutes, was the worst.
In addition to being a seemingly likeable person, he made one or two really great films (at least one, for sure) and for some reason that just adds to his likeability. The problem with this, is that because of his seemingly genuine affability and because of the one or two good films he has made, I always feel as if he has it in him to create something exceptional, and time and time and again I think that the 'next one' will BE the one ... only to find that it isn't. So is the case with his latest offering, Knock at the Cabin. With The Cabin At the End of the World (which was the source material for Knock at the Cabin), he even started off with more than half of the recipe for something amazing.
The fact that it falls SOOOO short of being so, is truly a shame, and makes me wonder if he will really ever reach the heights of another 'The Sixth Sense'.
In order to avoid a Spoiler Tag I will not go into detail, but there was ZERO FILMED backstory to any of the important characters, and the filming of the backstories (and getting to know at least a little about each of them) was NECESSARY / paramount for this film to work. Having each character just speak about themselves for what amounted to a handful of minutes, was the worst.
Pretty good film but a shame about the ending
jtindahouse2 February 2023
In a world of sequels and IP M. Night Shyamalan continues to give us interesting and original stories. And he tends to get a lot of flack for them sadly. People want original content but then destroy it every time it comes along. It's no wonder we can't have nice things. 'Knock at the Cabin' isn't perfect, but it's certainly a fun ride.
The film starts out as a mystery. We don't know what is going on and everything seems very strange and is not making a lot of sense. It's a good way to start a movie. Then we are let in on what is going on and things become particularly interesting. It's at this point that you simply must turn your brain off to logic to get through the rest of the film. Because much like a lot of religion it doesn't make a lick of sense.
Where the film let me down was the ending. The book has such a thought-provoking and interesting ending. To get the movie made they were obviously told they would have to change that. It's very disappointing but it's sadly where we are in the world of film. Everyone is afraid they might offend the 1% so the 99% miss out.
Still though, the first 9/10 of the movie are a pretty damn good time and are well worth your dollar. 7/10.
The film starts out as a mystery. We don't know what is going on and everything seems very strange and is not making a lot of sense. It's a good way to start a movie. Then we are let in on what is going on and things become particularly interesting. It's at this point that you simply must turn your brain off to logic to get through the rest of the film. Because much like a lot of religion it doesn't make a lick of sense.
Where the film let me down was the ending. The book has such a thought-provoking and interesting ending. To get the movie made they were obviously told they would have to change that. It's very disappointing but it's sadly where we are in the world of film. Everyone is afraid they might offend the 1% so the 99% miss out.
Still though, the first 9/10 of the movie are a pretty damn good time and are well worth your dollar. 7/10.
Better on a second viewing.
Sleepin_Dragon20 September 2023
Parents Eric and Andrew take their young daughter Wen on a vacation to a remote cabin.
M Night Shyalaman always manages to offer something a little bit different, sometimes it works, sometime it doesn't, Knock at The Cabin I'd place as one of the better ones, I enjoyed it.
I expected something along the same lines as Strangers, some sort of slasher movie, I wasn't expecting a horror thriller with biblical overtones.
I'll be honest, I didn't care a great deal for it when I first saw it at The Cinema, but second time round, I rather enjoyed it, possibly because.i knew what I was expecting.
It's a truly quirky film, pretty much as you'd expect, it's fairly well paced, has a degree of tension, it just manages to be so different.
I always like to think about how I'd feel in the position of a film's central character, and seeing if from Eric's point of view, you'd surely be thinking it was a set up, and that someone from the past had set up an elaborate hoax, the alternative is too terrible even to contemplate.
It's well acted all round, but I have to give credit to Dave Bautista, who puts in an absolutely terrific performance, he's captivating.
Those BBC news articles made me chuckle, most presenters now have regional accents across the channel, here they all had those wonderful accents from the 1950's, all terribly posh.
This film is definitely worth seeing, even if you were a bit undecided first time round.
M Night Shyalaman always manages to offer something a little bit different, sometimes it works, sometime it doesn't, Knock at The Cabin I'd place as one of the better ones, I enjoyed it.
I expected something along the same lines as Strangers, some sort of slasher movie, I wasn't expecting a horror thriller with biblical overtones.
I'll be honest, I didn't care a great deal for it when I first saw it at The Cinema, but second time round, I rather enjoyed it, possibly because.i knew what I was expecting.
It's a truly quirky film, pretty much as you'd expect, it's fairly well paced, has a degree of tension, it just manages to be so different.
I always like to think about how I'd feel in the position of a film's central character, and seeing if from Eric's point of view, you'd surely be thinking it was a set up, and that someone from the past had set up an elaborate hoax, the alternative is too terrible even to contemplate.
It's well acted all round, but I have to give credit to Dave Bautista, who puts in an absolutely terrific performance, he's captivating.
Those BBC news articles made me chuckle, most presenters now have regional accents across the channel, here they all had those wonderful accents from the 1950's, all terribly posh.
This film is definitely worth seeing, even if you were a bit undecided first time round.
Judgment Day
df16699n31 January 2023
M. Night Shyamalan's Knock at the Cabin is a solid concept and is filled with thrilling suspense, however I just felt that there was something missing. The acting was particularly good with some breakout performances from Ben Aldridge and Kristen Cui. It was an aesthetically pleasing film which was also a plus, but it was the story that just didn't add up. I felt that I left the movie with more questions than answers and an overall feeling of un-fulfillment. I think that audiences will enjoy this film for the most part, but the potential for a more satisfying conclusion will leave viewers feeling disappointment in my opinion. Still worth watching though.
Waste of a premise
seige-hound4 February 2023
I read the book this film is based on before watching it. The Cabin At the End of the World was a great book that really dives into the histories of the characters, the philosophy behind the choice, and it ended with an ambiguous ending, where you weren't sure who was right at the end.
The movie was on par with The Last Airbender in how it took the source material and made a Wikipedia summary adaptation with poor dialogue, acting and an ending that missed the point. The only redeeming quality was Dave Bautista's performance. He really did a good job with the role of a giant with a heart of gold, who is forced to do something horrible. You can really see the sadness in his eyes, and his conviction that what he saw was true.
M. Night needs to get help with his scripts. He just doesn't know what he's doing.
The movie was on par with The Last Airbender in how it took the source material and made a Wikipedia summary adaptation with poor dialogue, acting and an ending that missed the point. The only redeeming quality was Dave Bautista's performance. He really did a good job with the role of a giant with a heart of gold, who is forced to do something horrible. You can really see the sadness in his eyes, and his conviction that what he saw was true.
M. Night needs to get help with his scripts. He just doesn't know what he's doing.
Not just a knock, but another bang in the Renaissance of the enigmatic yet polarizing M. Night.
tresm8729 January 2023
Shyamalan gets the most extremes sides far as reactions. People either love or hate his movies for his bizarre yet ambitious signature style. The fact that he approaches his films with a "swing away" attitude has gained my utmost respect since his mega hit Sixth Sense. Along the way there's been some strikeouts but within the last decade he's created a Renaissance for his films.
This particular book adaptation is yet another hit, and will be sure to get people talking. The premise starts out rather straightforward and you quickly find out the stakes are high and massive. The story will grab hold of you and shake you to the core with twists that even though you know are coming will still be shocking even for M Night's catalogue.
The acting is absolutely next level with Dave Bautista and Jonathan Groff putting in their raw emotions and prowess into every scene. They will make you feel the story relentlessly . The writing here is also relative and gutsy. The camerawork is as crisp as ever with fantastic wilderness settings and supreme angle work. The cgi for certain scenes used looks authentic and never cheap. The true standout has to once again be the leaps that the plot takes going into to daring territory . It never holds back which is commendable in a time like this.
Overall I would easily say that this film will be looked at as one of his stronger ventures and is highly thought provoking to a point where you'll need a second viewing. It gives the classic Shyamalan wonder and curiosity that make him one of the most intriguing directors /story tellers of our time.
This particular book adaptation is yet another hit, and will be sure to get people talking. The premise starts out rather straightforward and you quickly find out the stakes are high and massive. The story will grab hold of you and shake you to the core with twists that even though you know are coming will still be shocking even for M Night's catalogue.
The acting is absolutely next level with Dave Bautista and Jonathan Groff putting in their raw emotions and prowess into every scene. They will make you feel the story relentlessly . The writing here is also relative and gutsy. The camerawork is as crisp as ever with fantastic wilderness settings and supreme angle work. The cgi for certain scenes used looks authentic and never cheap. The true standout has to once again be the leaps that the plot takes going into to daring territory . It never holds back which is commendable in a time like this.
Overall I would easily say that this film will be looked at as one of his stronger ventures and is highly thought provoking to a point where you'll need a second viewing. It gives the classic Shyamalan wonder and curiosity that make him one of the most intriguing directors /story tellers of our time.
Why oh why did they change the ending?
happytobesam5 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
So the film follows the book fairly literally. The horror is more intense in the book but I can accept that. The acting is fine. The book has obviously a lot more philosophical depth but that is hard to convey in a film.
But why oh why is the ending changed to some feel good happy ending?!?!? The book had a nice open ending where they walked off into the forest and you didn't know if ithe end of the world stuff was real or not and that was just fine. Why does everything need to be Disney-fied these days? Can people really not cope anymore without happy endings that books need to be rehashed to make the masses feel good. Disappointed.
But why oh why is the ending changed to some feel good happy ending?!?!? The book had a nice open ending where they walked off into the forest and you didn't know if ithe end of the world stuff was real or not and that was just fine. Why does everything need to be Disney-fied these days? Can people really not cope anymore without happy endings that books need to be rehashed to make the masses feel good. Disappointed.
Tense up through the end
Vic_max27 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I'll start by saying that I didn't read the book so I had no preconceptions of where the story was going (or meant to go).
For me - it was an unusual story in which I had no idea what would happen. That's a rare thing these days so it was especially engaging due to that alone.
The amazing performances by the two fathers, the daughter ... and Dave Bautista (who steals the show) kept me interested and fascinated through to the end.
When I found out what the book's indecisive ending was, I was glad the decision was made not to do that in this movie. Stuff like that can work beautifully in a book, but I've never seen it translate well in a movie ... it's just ends up being frustrating.
M. Night may be somewhat uneven in the popularity of his movies, but he is talented nonetheless. I really liked this movie (unlike his last one "Old") - it was a great suspenseful experience.
For me - it was an unusual story in which I had no idea what would happen. That's a rare thing these days so it was especially engaging due to that alone.
The amazing performances by the two fathers, the daughter ... and Dave Bautista (who steals the show) kept me interested and fascinated through to the end.
When I found out what the book's indecisive ending was, I was glad the decision was made not to do that in this movie. Stuff like that can work beautifully in a book, but I've never seen it translate well in a movie ... it's just ends up being frustrating.
M. Night may be somewhat uneven in the popularity of his movies, but he is talented nonetheless. I really liked this movie (unlike his last one "Old") - it was a great suspenseful experience.
Unique and gripping...
JK-WhatsUpWeirdoPodcast31 January 2023
Back from an advance screening of M. Night Shyamalan's Knock At The Cabin, I think it'll be polarizing and nerds will say iT's NoT hOrRoR, but I really liked it. It was very intense, the action starts up RIGHT away, and crazyyy good performances by every single actor. Gold star for Dave Bautista 🌟 It pulled off a few visuals and events I've never seen portrayed in a movie and they were pretty chilling. Also had some really cool camera work and transitions. I also think the end could be taken a few different ways which I really like. Go see it, and decide for yourself what happened. For me it was one of Shyamalan's best in a long time.
Put me in a bad mood
jeremy818111 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I liked the narrative but the script didn't deliver. There was no depth to any of the characters so I didn't care about what happened to any of them. I was bored and wanting to skip to the end but I held out because it's an M. Night Shyamalan film and I'm a fan of his early work. I was thinking there will be a twist/a reason for all of this at the end. Aaaaand... there wasn't. I genuinely felt annoyed that I'd spent my evening watching this. This could have been great, but it wasn't.
That's all I have to say about it but IMDB says I must write more in order to post this so I'll just say... 'Dillon!!!'
That's all I have to say about it but IMDB says I must write more in order to post this so I'll just say... 'Dillon!!!'
Knockout Performance From Dave Bautista In This Gripping Apocalyptic Thriller
lukem-527604 February 2023
The underrated M. Night Shyamalan has done it again!!! The clever director has made another smart mystery thriller that kept me guessing & totally engrossed.
I'm a bif fan of Shyamalan's films especially his last few: The Happening, The Visit & Old, all great little thriller's that are full of suspense & mystery. Now the director of smart stylish Mysteries is back with another knockout movie.
This one is about a loving holidaying couple with their little girl that are at a peaceful cabin in the woods. The couple are two men (yes a gay couple) & their adopted Asian girl, already Shyamalan has broke the mould & I'm a glad!!! There's lots of deep meaning to examine if wanted.
All of a sudden the cabin's peaceful existence is threatened by four odd strangers that turn up there & tell the couple that they have been chosen to make a horrific choice in order to save the world. The set-up is expertly handled with it's very creepy & calm mood & absolute knockout performance by usual action actor DAVE BAUTISTA!!! This guy has become a truly excellent actor & not just a character actor or supporting actor but a damn good leading star. It was Bautista that stood out the most for me in Blade Runner 2049!!!
Dave plays the most interesting character in the film & completely plays against type. Bautista is a big hulking tattooed man that is dressed smartly & has such a calm & kind presence, Dave's performance is excellent as Leonard, & comes accross like a man pushed into a hopeless situation & thats why he shows up at the cabin. The whole cast is damn good to be honest & we get some flashbacks of what gay men go through in our nasty society & Shyamalan shows us that just because a man is gay doesn't mean he can't be as tough as an other guy (a true nice touch) & our couples are a decent loving family played by strong actors.
The group that basically take over the cabin seem like a group of religious fanatics but as with Shyamalan, not everything is what it seems. I won't say anymore because the less you know the better the impact.
Knock at the Cabin is classy filmmaking with an awesome score, especially the beginning of the film that feels so old school 70's thriller. There's definitely a 70's paranoia feeling to this movie & a mix of the Home Invasion thriller & the doomsday genre.
The film looks beautiful with it's rich cinematography & the film is gripping suspenseful thriller that's drenched is mystery & suspicion.
Definitely one of Shyamalan's best movies & a great gripping watch at the Cinema!!
I'm a bif fan of Shyamalan's films especially his last few: The Happening, The Visit & Old, all great little thriller's that are full of suspense & mystery. Now the director of smart stylish Mysteries is back with another knockout movie.
This one is about a loving holidaying couple with their little girl that are at a peaceful cabin in the woods. The couple are two men (yes a gay couple) & their adopted Asian girl, already Shyamalan has broke the mould & I'm a glad!!! There's lots of deep meaning to examine if wanted.
All of a sudden the cabin's peaceful existence is threatened by four odd strangers that turn up there & tell the couple that they have been chosen to make a horrific choice in order to save the world. The set-up is expertly handled with it's very creepy & calm mood & absolute knockout performance by usual action actor DAVE BAUTISTA!!! This guy has become a truly excellent actor & not just a character actor or supporting actor but a damn good leading star. It was Bautista that stood out the most for me in Blade Runner 2049!!!
Dave plays the most interesting character in the film & completely plays against type. Bautista is a big hulking tattooed man that is dressed smartly & has such a calm & kind presence, Dave's performance is excellent as Leonard, & comes accross like a man pushed into a hopeless situation & thats why he shows up at the cabin. The whole cast is damn good to be honest & we get some flashbacks of what gay men go through in our nasty society & Shyamalan shows us that just because a man is gay doesn't mean he can't be as tough as an other guy (a true nice touch) & our couples are a decent loving family played by strong actors.
The group that basically take over the cabin seem like a group of religious fanatics but as with Shyamalan, not everything is what it seems. I won't say anymore because the less you know the better the impact.
Knock at the Cabin is classy filmmaking with an awesome score, especially the beginning of the film that feels so old school 70's thriller. There's definitely a 70's paranoia feeling to this movie & a mix of the Home Invasion thriller & the doomsday genre.
The film looks beautiful with it's rich cinematography & the film is gripping suspenseful thriller that's drenched is mystery & suspicion.
Definitely one of Shyamalan's best movies & a great gripping watch at the Cinema!!
Absolutely abuses its audience.
TxMike14 April 2023
I have watched most of Night Shyamalan's movies and some I like a lot. But to me his ability to make interesting movies decreases as time goes by. The last one I watched was "Old" where people on a beach aged at an accelerated rate.
This one I stared watching streaming on Peacock. A family of three, two dads and a little girl, about to turn 8, are vacationing in a secluded cabin in the woods, somewhere in Pennsylvania. Very shortly after the movie begins four strangers show up, they want to talk, but break down the doors when the parents lock themselves in.
The most frustrating thing is how S-L-O-W-L-Y the four strangers tell them why there are there and what they need. It absolutely is audience abuse. They tell them all kinds of other things but "this is why we are here and what we need from you" comes out at such a prolonged rate that I found myself thinking, "He is only doing this to make the movie longer."
Well they eventually tell the family that their mission is probably the most important mission ever in the history of humanity. And what they tell the family needs to be done makes absolutely no sense at all.
My wife, wisely, chose to skip this one. I wish I had too, I might never watch a Night Shyamalan movie again. Doing so is just mostly a waste of time. This movie is NOT entertaining and it doesn't make sense.
This one I stared watching streaming on Peacock. A family of three, two dads and a little girl, about to turn 8, are vacationing in a secluded cabin in the woods, somewhere in Pennsylvania. Very shortly after the movie begins four strangers show up, they want to talk, but break down the doors when the parents lock themselves in.
The most frustrating thing is how S-L-O-W-L-Y the four strangers tell them why there are there and what they need. It absolutely is audience abuse. They tell them all kinds of other things but "this is why we are here and what we need from you" comes out at such a prolonged rate that I found myself thinking, "He is only doing this to make the movie longer."
Well they eventually tell the family that their mission is probably the most important mission ever in the history of humanity. And what they tell the family needs to be done makes absolutely no sense at all.
My wife, wisely, chose to skip this one. I wish I had too, I might never watch a Night Shyamalan movie again. Doing so is just mostly a waste of time. This movie is NOT entertaining and it doesn't make sense.
Dave Bautista saves what would otherwise be virtually unwatchable.
simianfriday2 February 2023
Just so you know where I'm coming from up front, I should preface this review by saying I'm not the biggest M. Night Shyamalan fan - in fact, I kind of like to tease and mock his movies when I watch them with friends. I think he often starts off with interesting ideas but, perhaps because of his early success with The Sixth Sense, always feels this need to cram in some kind of ridiculous twist (or multiple twists) at the end. Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't - but he seems to rely on the surprise of the twist to win people over too much. It was a surprise to me then when this movie didn't have a twist at all. I kept waiting for it - but it never came.
That's not really a good thing though because the movie is very slow and plodding, never really going anywhere, and at 1hr 40min the premise just isn't engaging enough to sustain interest for the duration. It's not all bad though. Perhaps the most surprising thing is Dave Bautista, who delivers a nuanced understated performance as Leonard. I still remember when I used to assume a movie was going to be bad if Bautista was in it - but over the past few years he has really come into his own as an actor and is showing his ability to take on some interesting roles.
While I can't really recommend this movie I do have to give it a few bonus points just for Bautista.
That's not really a good thing though because the movie is very slow and plodding, never really going anywhere, and at 1hr 40min the premise just isn't engaging enough to sustain interest for the duration. It's not all bad though. Perhaps the most surprising thing is Dave Bautista, who delivers a nuanced understated performance as Leonard. I still remember when I used to assume a movie was going to be bad if Bautista was in it - but over the past few years he has really come into his own as an actor and is showing his ability to take on some interesting roles.
While I can't really recommend this movie I do have to give it a few bonus points just for Bautista.
Knock knock. Who's there. Cabin.
Top_Dawg_Critic7 February 2023
Cabin who? Ya, it's all I got, and that's about as exciting as M. Night Shyamalan's Knock at the Cabin. The premise of the story was very intriguing, and the casting and performances - especially Bautista, were spot on. But Shyamalan's execution felt more like something you'd expect from an amateur filmmaker. His artistic attempts with all the off-center shots - such as an actors face in the bottom right corner of the entire screen, became annoying fast, especially when it came to the dramatic gore scenes, that seemed to be edited down for 10 year old viewers. Even the backstory of the two dads was boring and pretty much insignificant to the core premise of the film, especially when the narrative was based on "pure love". Ya, ok, nothing pure about those two in those backstories, that also lacked anything of substance to make me care for either dad. His screenplay lacked the creativity to give the viewer the thrills and shock-factor this film really needed to give it some bite. At least throw in a twist or two to offset the generic and predictable storytelling. Nevertheless, still a decent one-time watch, but could've easily been so much better.
The Trolley Dilemma... but your family is on one side of the track.
maddiejo203 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
M. Night Shyamalan brings us another film filled with suspense and sociological dilemmas that delve deeper in to the thought-provoking experiments of the trolley problem. This is a fictional scenario where an individual must decide on the outcome of a trolley running over one person on the track versus five people on the other track. In theory, it would make the most sense to sacrifice one person in order to save as many people as you can... but what do you do if that one person is someone you love?
I went in to this film with very low expectations as I did not get the chance to look in to it before my initial viewing. Although it was not my favorite by any means, it was still something that kept my attention and left me curious as to what could possibly be the outcome of this scenario. The story itself felt slightly underdeveloped, and left something missing that I cannot quite place but the ending was done in a way that truly saved this film for me. The acting, the dialogue, and the story wrapped up nicely in a heartbreaking but beautiful performance from both Jonathan Groff and Ben Aldridge within the final few minutes, and we also had the privilege of seeing a very young but talented Kristen Cui, leaving plenty of emotions to be felt when the credits start rolling.
Overall, I do recommend seeing this movie - mostly with the hope that it might stir up some discussions with others regarding the ethical dilemma of personal sacrifices for the greater good... or just give you something to waste a couple of hours on... either way, maybe lower your expectations as this most likely will not be Shyamalan's next big thing.
I went in to this film with very low expectations as I did not get the chance to look in to it before my initial viewing. Although it was not my favorite by any means, it was still something that kept my attention and left me curious as to what could possibly be the outcome of this scenario. The story itself felt slightly underdeveloped, and left something missing that I cannot quite place but the ending was done in a way that truly saved this film for me. The acting, the dialogue, and the story wrapped up nicely in a heartbreaking but beautiful performance from both Jonathan Groff and Ben Aldridge within the final few minutes, and we also had the privilege of seeing a very young but talented Kristen Cui, leaving plenty of emotions to be felt when the credits start rolling.
Overall, I do recommend seeing this movie - mostly with the hope that it might stir up some discussions with others regarding the ethical dilemma of personal sacrifices for the greater good... or just give you something to waste a couple of hours on... either way, maybe lower your expectations as this most likely will not be Shyamalan's next big thing.
Tame and mild
FeastMode3 February 2023
Tame and mild are not words I would use to describe any other Shyamalan movie. I don't understand why he takes this route with Knock at the Cabin. It's not restricted by a PG-13 rating like so many other horror movies from cowardly/greedy studios (looking at you M3gan). So why were there numerous times where this movie used strategies seen in PG-13 horror flicks? Every time there was anything close to violence or gore, the camera cuts away. I don't even know what caused this to get an R-rating.
As for the movie itself, it's extremely boring and has very little of value. Nothing stands out. Nothing impressed me. The filmmaking is more than competent, but there is almost no intrigue in this story. And it's one of the preachiest movies I've seen in a long time.
As someone who's been more patient than most with Shyamalan's flops, that patience is starting to dwindle. I'll always be grateful for movies like Unbreakable, Split, Signs and many others. But I hope he can get back on track soon. (1 viewing, opening Thursday UltraScreen 2/2/2023)
As for the movie itself, it's extremely boring and has very little of value. Nothing stands out. Nothing impressed me. The filmmaking is more than competent, but there is almost no intrigue in this story. And it's one of the preachiest movies I've seen in a long time.
As someone who's been more patient than most with Shyamalan's flops, that patience is starting to dwindle. I'll always be grateful for movies like Unbreakable, Split, Signs and many others. But I hope he can get back on track soon. (1 viewing, opening Thursday UltraScreen 2/2/2023)
What Walt's Watching
waltermwilliams8 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
"Knock At The Cabin" just continues to back my theory that nothing good ever comes out having a a cabin especially in the woods.
Time after time I've been proven right ever since "The Evil Dead" in 1981 and again in 2011 with the biggest parody of this genre from "The Cabin In The Woods" also Stephen Kings' "Geralds Game".
The king of the twist is not Chubby Checker its Director M. Night Shyamalan is back on the big screen for the first time in 2 years.
His last outing had people ageing rapidly on a tropical beach in "Old" and now four strangers commit a home/cabin invasion during the middle of a global catastrophe.
If you had to choose between saving your family or saving humanity. What choice would you make?
That's the moral dilemma two "Daddy's" have to make when confronted by 4 strangers: the massive Dave Bautista as educator "Leonard", "Servant" actor Rupert Grint as reformed drunk Redmond, Nikki Amuka-Bird as nurse Sabrina and Abby Quinn as cook "Adriane" and all carrying roughly fashioned weapons.
What choice or sacrifice would you make if push came to shove?
Shyamalan has has been busy making the exceptional "Servant" for Apple Plus TV...which is must watch viewing if "Rosemary's Baby" is your jam.
His latest feature film is also worthy of your watchlist.
Some of the clues to this new twist lie in the numbers of invaders and the predictions they make.
Sunday Bible study graduates will crack the so-called twist in a New York minute...others may struggle even by the ending.
The hardest thing to swallow in "Knock At The Cabin" is Bautista as a gentle second grade teacher, but it's possibly his best acting to date.
He was cast after Shyamalan was impressed by his performance in Blade Runner 2049 (2017).
"Knock At The Cabin" is based on the 2018 novel "The Cabin At The End Of The World" by Paul Tremblay which inspired M. Nights' screenplay.
Warning: Around the 30 minute mark you'll witness footage of a strong earthquake in the Pacific which creates a massive tsunami and may shock anyone affected by recent real life events in Turkey.
Watch out for: rising star Kristen Cui as "Wen" the daughter of the Gay Parents skilfully played by Joanthon Groff as "Eric" and Ben Aldridge as "Andrew".
"Knock At The Cabin" is a horror, mystery, thriller that will shock you and linger in your mind long after you've left the cinema.
Time after time I've been proven right ever since "The Evil Dead" in 1981 and again in 2011 with the biggest parody of this genre from "The Cabin In The Woods" also Stephen Kings' "Geralds Game".
The king of the twist is not Chubby Checker its Director M. Night Shyamalan is back on the big screen for the first time in 2 years.
His last outing had people ageing rapidly on a tropical beach in "Old" and now four strangers commit a home/cabin invasion during the middle of a global catastrophe.
If you had to choose between saving your family or saving humanity. What choice would you make?
That's the moral dilemma two "Daddy's" have to make when confronted by 4 strangers: the massive Dave Bautista as educator "Leonard", "Servant" actor Rupert Grint as reformed drunk Redmond, Nikki Amuka-Bird as nurse Sabrina and Abby Quinn as cook "Adriane" and all carrying roughly fashioned weapons.
What choice or sacrifice would you make if push came to shove?
Shyamalan has has been busy making the exceptional "Servant" for Apple Plus TV...which is must watch viewing if "Rosemary's Baby" is your jam.
His latest feature film is also worthy of your watchlist.
Some of the clues to this new twist lie in the numbers of invaders and the predictions they make.
Sunday Bible study graduates will crack the so-called twist in a New York minute...others may struggle even by the ending.
The hardest thing to swallow in "Knock At The Cabin" is Bautista as a gentle second grade teacher, but it's possibly his best acting to date.
He was cast after Shyamalan was impressed by his performance in Blade Runner 2049 (2017).
"Knock At The Cabin" is based on the 2018 novel "The Cabin At The End Of The World" by Paul Tremblay which inspired M. Nights' screenplay.
Warning: Around the 30 minute mark you'll witness footage of a strong earthquake in the Pacific which creates a massive tsunami and may shock anyone affected by recent real life events in Turkey.
Watch out for: rising star Kristen Cui as "Wen" the daughter of the Gay Parents skilfully played by Joanthon Groff as "Eric" and Ben Aldridge as "Andrew".
"Knock At The Cabin" is a horror, mystery, thriller that will shock you and linger in your mind long after you've left the cinema.
Knock, Knock at the Cabin. Who's There? Strangers Telling You It's the End of the World. No, Thank You, We Don't Want Any!
Stream2BigScreen_Movie_Reviews4 February 2023
Okay, Streamers, I know we all have been waiting on pins and needles for M. Night Shyamalan's next feature film, and it's finally here. Oh, was that only me? Okay, then... Anway, I was anticipating Knock at the Cabin since I saw the first trailer last fall. Home invasion and the end of the world movies build on reasonable fears that many people have, so let's see what Shyamalan was able to do with the mix of these two.
Knock at the Cabin is based on a novel by Paul Tremblay, "The Cabin at the End of the World." Shyamalan and his co-writers have adapted that novel into this movie. The basic premise is that a gay couple and their adopted daughter are on a vacation in a remote cabin in Pennsylvania when four strangers come to the cabin and tell them that the world will end unless they decide to sacrifice one of their own. It's a moral dilemma - kill someone you love in order to save billions of people you don't even know. What would you do if these hijinks ensue.
Here's the thing - the premise of this movie is very interesting. It immediately makes the audience question what decision they would make and what questions they would ask if put in this situation. In that way, the movie easily grabs you. The problem is that Shyamalan doesn't do much more than pose the question and go through the motions of telling you what these guys do. It gets repetitive and there isn't enough development of the gay couple as characters to help the audience care about them or why they make the decisions they make. Therefore, the movie becomes pretty frustrating and unsatisfying.
On the other hand, there are some good aspects. Dave Bautista, who plays one of the strangers, Leonard, is an inviting presence on screen. He can be menacing by his sheer size, but his performance ably fights against first impressions. Rupert Grint, who play another stranger, Redmond, brings a bit of dark humor. He's probably the scariest of the strangers. I'll also mention that even though I don't believe they are well-developed characters, Ben Aldridge and Jonathan Groff, who play the gay couple, Eric and Andrew, have good chemistry and react appropriately in this situation. I'll also say that no one does anything really dumb in this movie, which typically happens in these home invasion movies. Eric and Andrew, generally, make smart decisions to help protect each other and their daughter. So, the movie isn't frustrating because anyone is dumb.
I also don't know why this movie is rated R. There isn't really any gore. There isn't anything visually scary about it. There may be some curse words, but I can't imagine they were enough to justify this not being PG-13.
In conclusion, Knock at the Cabin is a decent entry in the Shyamalan filmography. It is not one of his best, but it also certainly not one of the worst. There is a good premise, but the movie doesn't do anything more than present it as a morality play, which eventually becomes repetitive. Although there are good performances, there isn't enough character development to sustain interest in these individuals. Knock at the Cabin is only good enough for a handful of popcorn - there's no urgency to see this in a theater.
Knock at the Cabin is based on a novel by Paul Tremblay, "The Cabin at the End of the World." Shyamalan and his co-writers have adapted that novel into this movie. The basic premise is that a gay couple and their adopted daughter are on a vacation in a remote cabin in Pennsylvania when four strangers come to the cabin and tell them that the world will end unless they decide to sacrifice one of their own. It's a moral dilemma - kill someone you love in order to save billions of people you don't even know. What would you do if these hijinks ensue.
Here's the thing - the premise of this movie is very interesting. It immediately makes the audience question what decision they would make and what questions they would ask if put in this situation. In that way, the movie easily grabs you. The problem is that Shyamalan doesn't do much more than pose the question and go through the motions of telling you what these guys do. It gets repetitive and there isn't enough development of the gay couple as characters to help the audience care about them or why they make the decisions they make. Therefore, the movie becomes pretty frustrating and unsatisfying.
On the other hand, there are some good aspects. Dave Bautista, who plays one of the strangers, Leonard, is an inviting presence on screen. He can be menacing by his sheer size, but his performance ably fights against first impressions. Rupert Grint, who play another stranger, Redmond, brings a bit of dark humor. He's probably the scariest of the strangers. I'll also mention that even though I don't believe they are well-developed characters, Ben Aldridge and Jonathan Groff, who play the gay couple, Eric and Andrew, have good chemistry and react appropriately in this situation. I'll also say that no one does anything really dumb in this movie, which typically happens in these home invasion movies. Eric and Andrew, generally, make smart decisions to help protect each other and their daughter. So, the movie isn't frustrating because anyone is dumb.
I also don't know why this movie is rated R. There isn't really any gore. There isn't anything visually scary about it. There may be some curse words, but I can't imagine they were enough to justify this not being PG-13.
In conclusion, Knock at the Cabin is a decent entry in the Shyamalan filmography. It is not one of his best, but it also certainly not one of the worst. There is a good premise, but the movie doesn't do anything more than present it as a morality play, which eventually becomes repetitive. Although there are good performances, there isn't enough character development to sustain interest in these individuals. Knock at the Cabin is only good enough for a handful of popcorn - there's no urgency to see this in a theater.
A very enjoyable experience. Dave Bautista is captivating.
cerwen807 February 2023
Par for the course for an M Night Shyamalan movie. I actually really enjoyed this. Maybe I just really enjoy watching Dave Bautista. I was thankful that they didn't rely on gratuitous gore to get the point across, that's the main thing I was afraid of. This was tastefully done and very emotional.
Also, I'd like to beg the question, why does a Shyamalan movie always have to have some 'twist' to it? Sure, I expect the movie to give me food for thought but is there some secret surprising 'twist' to the story? I didn't get that impression from the trailers and the movie didn't seem to be suggesting one and I just enjoyed each moment for what it was. In the end, I was satisfied with the way it went, regardless of whether or not I already knew the end or guessed the end or didn't guess it.
Also, I'd like to beg the question, why does a Shyamalan movie always have to have some 'twist' to it? Sure, I expect the movie to give me food for thought but is there some secret surprising 'twist' to the story? I didn't get that impression from the trailers and the movie didn't seem to be suggesting one and I just enjoyed each moment for what it was. In the end, I was satisfied with the way it went, regardless of whether or not I already knew the end or guessed the end or didn't guess it.
Solid.
dprince-5646411 April 2023
Is this movie the greatest thing you'll ever see? Absolutely not but to sit there and give this movie a one star rating like some of you reviewers did just means you're Ken/Karen.
Movie has a great plot and Bautista does a phenomenal job I personally just expected a more dramatic ending or maybe some back story as to why this was all happening but unfortunately all I got was "We had a vision" When it comes to movies I'm not really hard to please I just kind of take it for what it is unlike all the fake movie experts you'll usually see leaving reviews talking about the movie director, camera angles and all that other nonsense that they clearly don't have the qualifications to even bad mouth but sadly like most delusional people they incorrectly feel they are experts.
Overall is worth watching! You won't be blown away but it's still an enjoyable movie worth giving a shot.
Movie has a great plot and Bautista does a phenomenal job I personally just expected a more dramatic ending or maybe some back story as to why this was all happening but unfortunately all I got was "We had a vision" When it comes to movies I'm not really hard to please I just kind of take it for what it is unlike all the fake movie experts you'll usually see leaving reviews talking about the movie director, camera angles and all that other nonsense that they clearly don't have the qualifications to even bad mouth but sadly like most delusional people they incorrectly feel they are experts.
Overall is worth watching! You won't be blown away but it's still an enjoyable movie worth giving a shot.
Snore At The Cabin*
vengeance204 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Having saw previews of this one, I wasn't holding my breath on it being good given who the film was written & directed by.
The film sees 2 Dads who are holidaying at a cabin during the summer with their daughter until they're taken hostage by armed strangers who demand that the family make a choice to avert the apocalypse before it's too late.
I found the film to be pretty mundane & boring. I mean, like most of M. Night Shyamalan's films, their too out there, slow & pretty boring. This film is no exception. The plot is simple the twist you could sort of see coming a mile a way & the action was very sparing & too few & far between.
The pacing is bad, nearly 45 minutes in I looked at my watch. At 94 minutes, 1 hour & 34 minutes, this film is overly long for what it is. I also found the modern day sniping to be unnecessary along with the films underlying cryptic message about sacrifice. The repetitiveness got annoying & didn't once forward the plot or give us any idea on how the film was going to end.
Overall, another horror that falls flat on it's face. Can't we just have decent straight forward horrors with no modern day drivel added in? Not to mention a film that doesn't have a weird plot with poor pacing & a off runtime? I don't know. The film didn't cut it. It was too slow, boring, mundane & repetitive & the ending wasn't that great & very anticlimactic.
3/10.
The film sees 2 Dads who are holidaying at a cabin during the summer with their daughter until they're taken hostage by armed strangers who demand that the family make a choice to avert the apocalypse before it's too late.
I found the film to be pretty mundane & boring. I mean, like most of M. Night Shyamalan's films, their too out there, slow & pretty boring. This film is no exception. The plot is simple the twist you could sort of see coming a mile a way & the action was very sparing & too few & far between.
The pacing is bad, nearly 45 minutes in I looked at my watch. At 94 minutes, 1 hour & 34 minutes, this film is overly long for what it is. I also found the modern day sniping to be unnecessary along with the films underlying cryptic message about sacrifice. The repetitiveness got annoying & didn't once forward the plot or give us any idea on how the film was going to end.
Overall, another horror that falls flat on it's face. Can't we just have decent straight forward horrors with no modern day drivel added in? Not to mention a film that doesn't have a weird plot with poor pacing & a off runtime? I don't know. The film didn't cut it. It was too slow, boring, mundane & repetitive & the ending wasn't that great & very anticlimactic.
3/10.
A Great Concept Too Padded Out For Time
cadillac202 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Knock on the Cabin is a pretty straight forward film that is what it advertises itself to be. Four strangers show up at the cabin of a family of three and propose that one member must be sacrificed by another, willingly, in order to prevent the apocalypse. It's an intriguing concept and there's a lot that could be done with it. Unfortunately, Shyamalan doesn't make it all that interesting. The cast is wonderful, especially Dave Bautista, who once again proves that he has become a fine, charismatic actor.
Unfortunately, the concept proves to be the most exciting thing about the movie. There's a lot of dialogue and drama here, but none of it feels all that anticipatory. It's typical musings about belief and and apocalyptic forewarnings. One thing that Shyamalan does succeed in is creating tension in spurts, using cinematography and editing that has come to define a lot of his movies. But these come in waves and it's almost always very tame. I will also say that, after a brief look at the book and how the story unfolds, it feels like Shyamalan went safe with this movie. It's neither all that shocking, nor scary. There are also a bunch of useless flashbacks that feel forced and added in to pad the film out.
At the very least, there are a handful of exciting scenes that almost feel like they go hand in hand with the very seldom parts of The Happening that were actually enjoyable. I gave the film the stars I did for Shyamalan creating some legitimate tension, the acting, and the intriguing story. Unfortunately, this isn't a movie I really have much of a desire to see again. The ending is pretty predictable, which is kind of sad considering it's Shyamalan, and a lot of what happens just isn't all that interesting or surprising. That said, this is probably his best film since Split, for whatever that's worth.
Unfortunately, the concept proves to be the most exciting thing about the movie. There's a lot of dialogue and drama here, but none of it feels all that anticipatory. It's typical musings about belief and and apocalyptic forewarnings. One thing that Shyamalan does succeed in is creating tension in spurts, using cinematography and editing that has come to define a lot of his movies. But these come in waves and it's almost always very tame. I will also say that, after a brief look at the book and how the story unfolds, it feels like Shyamalan went safe with this movie. It's neither all that shocking, nor scary. There are also a bunch of useless flashbacks that feel forced and added in to pad the film out.
At the very least, there are a handful of exciting scenes that almost feel like they go hand in hand with the very seldom parts of The Happening that were actually enjoyable. I gave the film the stars I did for Shyamalan creating some legitimate tension, the acting, and the intriguing story. Unfortunately, this isn't a movie I really have much of a desire to see again. The ending is pretty predictable, which is kind of sad considering it's Shyamalan, and a lot of what happens just isn't all that interesting or surprising. That said, this is probably his best film since Split, for whatever that's worth.
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