Archived Analysis: "Unbreakable" and "Away We Go"

Zach’s 30 Favorite Films: #29

Unbreakable

Directed by: M. Night Shyamalan

Starring: Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson

Rated PG-13 for mature thematic elements including some disturbing violent content, and for a crude sexual reference.

After his wildly successful breakout hit The Sixth Sense, Shyamalan turned to the realm of comic-book lore with his film Unbreakable. However, unlike your typical tight-toting heroes flying over cityscapes, Unbreakable is based in realism, one that would even put NBC’s Heroes to shame. In the film, Bruce Willis plays David Dunn, a down-on his luck security guard who comes in to contact with a paraplegic man (played by Samuel L. Jackson) who is convinced that Dunn has superhuman powers. Unlike most superhero films, which dwell on nifty effects and lightning-quick fight scenes, Unbreakable dwells on the interior of the superhero concept; the ideas of accepting one’s fate and using one’s abilities. Combined with technical brilliance, especially with the showy-yet-breathtaking cinematography of Eduardo Serra, Unbreakable is truly a terrific film that plays to Shyamalan’s strengths; beautiful images, creative concept, jaw-dropping twists, and a great message. Although part of the overpopulated comic-book genre, Unbreakable is a film that DC Entertainment and Marvel should follow to closely; they might learn how make a movie that is truly super.

Away We Go

Directed by: Sam Mendes

Starring: John Krasinski, Maya Rudolph

Rated R for language and some sexual content.

Despite its frequent moral flaws, Away We Go is a great blend of heartwarming quirkiness and compelling drama. It's more than some whimsical comedy and not serious enough to be draining. Overall, it’s a complex film that feels very, very simple. The story follows Krasinski’s and Rudolph’s characters who are crossing the country to find a place to settle and raise their unborn child. Unfortunately, they not only run into a handful of people and places not right for them, but are forced to question the very nature of love and commitment despite the inconsistencies and craziness of the world around them. The story is littered with some harsh content, strong existential conclusions, and a rejection of marriage because (like real life) most examples are hardly "good" relationships (the film doesn't consider the spiritual aspects of marriage.) By the book, this plot (and content) shouldn't have worked for me. But, thanks to the mastery of Mendes, the writing of Eggers and Vida, and the performances of Krasinski, Rudolph, and an all-star supporting cast, Away We Go strikes a chord where most comedies fail, and makes you do more then just laugh and cry; it makes you want to live well.