"Glass," a psychological thriller film released in 2019, directed by M. Night Shyamalan, serves as the third installment in the "Eastrail 177 Trilogy," following "Unbreakable" (2000) and "Split" (2016). Bringing together characters from both previous films, "Glass" weaves a complex narrative of superheroes and villains in a grounded and thought-provoking manner.
Release Date and Director: "Glass" hit theaters on January 18, 2019, with M. Night Shyamalan returning as the director. Known for his unique storytelling and twist endings, Shyamalan's involvement heightened anticipation for this film that promised to unite characters from two distinct films.
Synopsis:
Set in the same universe as "Unbreakable" and "Split," "Glass" follows David Dunn (Bruce Willis), a security guard with superhuman abilities, and Kevin Wendell Crumb (James McAvoy), a man with multiple personalities, including the dangerous Beast.
The two find themselves institutionalized alongside Elijah Price (Samuel L. Jackson), also known as Mr. Glass, a mastermind with brittle bones.
As they come under the scrutiny of psychiatrist Dr. Ellie Staple (Sarah Paulson), who specializes in treating individuals with delusions of grandeur, the characters' intertwined destinies lead to an unexpected climax that challenges perceptions of heroism and villainy.
Significance, Themes, and Why You Should Watch:
"Glass" is significant for its unique approach to the superhero genre, exploring psychological and philosophical themes rather than relying solely on action sequences.
The film delves into the consequences of extraordinary abilities, the blurred lines between heroes and villains, and the impact of society's disbelief in the extraordinary. If you appreciate thought-provoking narratives that subvert superhero tropes, "Glass" offers a fresh and cerebral take on the genre.
Where To Stream
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Production Details:
Directed and written by M. Night Shyamalan, "Glass" brings closure to the trilogy, revealing connections between characters in unexpected ways. Jason Blum, Marc Bienstock, and Ashwin Rajan served as producers. The film faced challenges in balancing the grounded, character-driven tone established in "Unbreakable" with the more horror-influenced style of "Split."
Filming locations included Philadelphia, where the previous films were also set, providing a sense of continuity. Shyamalan's preference for secrecy and surprise led to a unique production process, with minimal details revealed until the film's release.
The film's budget was reportedly around $20 million, a modest sum compared to typical superhero blockbusters. "Glass" achieved considerable success at the box office, showcasing Shyamalan's ability to deliver compelling stories with a moderate budget.
Reception and Awards:
Critical reception to "Glass" was mixed, with praise for its ambition, performances, and thematic depth, but criticism for its pacing and the resolution of certain plot points. Audiences, however, appreciated the film's unconventional take on the superhero genre, with many highlighting the unexpected twists and character developments.
While "Glass" did not receive major awards, it further solidified M. Night Shyamalan's reputation for creating thought-provoking and unpredictable narratives within the realm of genre filmmaking.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- "Glass" features cameo appearances by actors from both "Unbreakable" and "Split," connecting the trilogy in surprising ways.
- The film's title refers to Mr. Glass, one of the central characters, and metaphorically alludes to the fragility of the human condition.
Controversies and Interesting Stories:
One notable controversy surrounding "Glass" was its divisive ending, which sparked discussions among fans and critics about the film's conclusion and its implications for the broader narrative of the trilogy.
In conclusion, "Glass" stands as a distinctive entry in the superhero genre, challenging conventions and providing a thought-provoking exploration of power, belief, and identity. Whether you are a fan of the previous films or appreciate films that defy expectations, "Glass" offers a unique and captivating cinematic experience.